Author . 



Title 



Imprint. 




16 — 47372-2 OFO 



ONE YEAR IN THE CIVIL 
WAR 



A Diary of the Events from April 1st, 1864, to 
April 1st, 1865 



By 



WILLIAM N. PRICE 

A Private Soldier in Company D, 6th Tennessee, United 
States Volunteer Infantry 



Printed for Private Distribution 



ONE YEAR IN THE CIVIL 
WAR 



A Diary of the Events from April Ist, 1864, to 
April 1st, 1865 



By 



WILLIAM N. PRICE 

A Private Soldier in Company D, 6th Tennessee, United 
States Volunteer Infantry 



Printed for Private Distribution 






S^: 



In found remembrance of our Dear Fath- 
er, William Newton Price, this volume 
is tenderly and affectionately dedicated 
to our Darling Mother, Martha Jane 
Price. 

—The Children. 



In Exchange 
■Dmv. of T&^m 

WAY 5 1933 



PREFACE. 



The Diary printed herewith represents only one year 
of the four of the service rendered his country by its 
writer in the great civil war of 60s. 

Its writer, William N. Price was born August the 11th, 
1831, Died June the 29th, 1905. 

Married March the 18th, 1854, in Louisville, Tenn. En- 
listed April the 23rd, 1862, at Camp Beech, Ky., under Col. 
Cooper, (who was afterwards promoted to General) and 
Capt. M. D. Bearden, 23rd Army Corps., Adjutant Capt. 
Wm. Rule, 6th Tennessee, Company D. . , 

From Camp Beech, Ky., his regiment was transferred 
to Big Creek Gap in June 1862, thence to Cumberland 
Gap, where they remained from June until September, 
1862, thence to Ohio River points, and were transferred 
to the Army of the Cumberland in Nashville m November 
62 stopping on their way to Nashville at Cincinnati and 
Louisville. Nashville to Murfresboro, where a severe 
battle was fought, and where they remained until March, 
1863; thence to Carthage on the Tennessee River, and to 
Chattanooga in 1863, where his regiment fought with 
Rosencranz's Army against Longstreet. 

After the battle of Chickamaugua they were sent up 
the Tennessee River to Blythe's Ferry, and thence to 
Knoxville and Straw Plains, where they remained until 
they started on the Georgia campaign m April, 1864. ihe 
Diary commences April 1st, 1864. , , , ^ , . , 

The Diary was kept in a little blank book from which 
it has been produced exactly as vv'ritten. 
It is printed for private distribution. 



AN APPRECIATION. 



The proof reader of this little book wishes to say that 
his love and admiration and pride for its writer has been 
deepened and widened for having gone with him through 
his daily chroniclings of this last year of the great civil 
conflict. There is never a compromise of right, never a 
filtering from duty, not one word of bitterness, only a 
deep regret at all times for the unhappy condition of 
his country. After reading it and seeing again the ter- 
rible havoc that war made; the dead, the dying, the 
wounded, the sick, the tired foot-sore and weary soldier, 
the sufferings of helpless women and children, the de- 
struction of property, the wreck and ruin every where, 
the proof reader joins with General Sherman in saying: 
"War is Hell." No other word quite expresses the meaning 
so well. H. M. P. 



The following was written on inside cover of diary: 

"As the future is unknown to the children of men, I 
have one request to make in regard to this little book, 
if in the dispensation of Providence I should never be 
permitted to return to my home, I request in whosoever's 
hand this book falls (and I charge him as one who ex- 
pects to meet him where the secrets of all hearts shall be 
made known) to send it to my wife. Her address is 
Martha J. Price, Concord, Knox County, East Tennessee. 
In good earnest, I am, etc. 

WILLIAM N. PRICE, 
Company D, 6th Regiment, Tennessee Volunteer Infantry, 



MOSSY CREEK, TENNESSEE. 

APRIL 1st, 1864— On picket duty on Dandridge road. 
Rained very hard. Returned to camp cold, wet and 
hungry. 

APRIL 2nd— Stayed in camp all day. Received a letter 
from home. , . „ ^ 

APRIL 3rd (SABBATH)— Remamed m camp all day 
and sent letter home. Orders came at 11 o'clock to be 
ready to march at reveille. 

APRIL 4th — Up early and tents down and ready to 
march pursuant to orders. Stood round in mud and rain 
till near noon and was ordered to put up tent agam. 

APRIL 5th— Ordered across the creek to clear off a 
camping ground, but was soon called back as the Brigade 
was ordered to Strawberry Plains. Went to New Market 
and camped for the night with orders to march at day- 
light. 



STRAWBERRY PLAINS. 

APRIL 6 — Up early and on the march. Arrive at 
Strawberry Plains at 10 a. m. and lay down in the rocks. 

APRIL 7 — Ordered to permanent camp near the bridge 
on east side of the river. I was detailed as train guard; 
went to Bull's Gap and back to Knoxville. 

APRIL 8th— Returned to the Plains at 8 o'clock a. m., 
relieved and v/ent to my quarters. 

APRIL 9th — Remained in camp all day and read the 

palmers. . „ . , 

APRIL 10th (SABBATH)— Nothing of mterest occur- 

1*6(1 

APRIL 11th— Read a pamphlet through entitled the 

Groosbeak Mansion. , ,, . . j 

APRIL 12th Went on picket on the Morristown road. 

this night it rained. , ^ 

^^PRIL 13th— Still on picket. Wrote a letter and sent 
it home by Mary A. Coop. Relieved from picket at 2 
o'clock p. m. 

APRIL 14— Remained in camp all day. 
APRIL 15th— Read the service magazine through. ^ 
APRIL 16th— Went on picket on Dandridge road, being 
cold windy day. . , ^ _, . 

APRIL 17th (SABBATH)— Still on picket. This is 
Sabbath morning; the sun rose clear, the wind had ceased 
to blow and the early flowers could be seen here and 
there; the music of birds could be heard in every direc- 
tion; all nature seemed to smile and say: Behold the 
o-oodness of God!" How sad were my thoughts to hear 
instead of the church going bells, the stirring sound of 
martial music and the heavy tread of armed men pre- 



pared to take the life of their fellow man and send them 
to that bourne from whence no traveler returns. Every- 
where were to be seen the ravages of war and the im- 
plements of death. Why all this? Some say we think 
it caused by one party, some another, but I believe we 
are all to blame and that this is God's judgment on us for 
our sins, for verily we are a proud-hearted and stiff-neck- 
ed people. Such are my thoughts this beautiful Sabbath 
morning, and oh! how I desire to see the time when peace 
and brotherly love shall prevail; when every man can 
return to the bosom of his family to enjoy the comforts 
of domestic peace. But I must cease for the Relief is 
coming and I must return to camp and regale myself with 
hardtack, coffee, bacon and beans. 

APRIL 18th — Remained in camp until 2 o'clock p. m., 
and went on picket again and was placed on the same 
post I occupied the day before. Warm and rainy. 

APRIL 19 — Still on picket, the weather cold. Returned 
to camp 2 p. m. About sundown I loped the train and 
went to Knoxville expecting to meet my dear wife there, 
but was sadly disappointed. 

APRIL 20 — At 8 o'clock this morning. I again loped 
the train and started for the Plains with a sad heart on 
account of not seeing my wife. Arrived at the Plains at 
10 a. m. 

APRIL 21 — Weather clear with considerable fi-ost. To- 
day our regiment was inspected by Col. Hobson. At 2 
o'clock I went on picket and was assigned to the same 
post I had occupied the two previous days. 

APRIL 22 — Still on picket. This is a beautiful spring- 
morning, one peculiar to this season of the year. The air 
is still almost as death; not a breath moves the tender 
flowers; the sun sheds the dim luster, as if to say the 
young and tender buds cannot bear the effulgent rays 
of my noontide glory. The birds seem to vie with each 
other in generous rivalry as to which can sing the loud- 
est; the air is vocal with their mingled voices in every 
direction. Everything seems to be contented and happy. 
While contemplating this book of nature that is spread 
out before me, my thoughts go back to the sprintide of 
life with me; I sport again as a child over green fields; 
hear again the merry laugh of brothers and sisters; li;-;- 
ten again to the pious counsel of a Christian mother; 
ramble once more around the old school house with the 
friends of my youth; then I, too, was contented and hap- 
py as the birds that now sing around me. This v.-as in 
the green valley of childhood where my thoughts delight 
to linger, so up the hillside of youth my memory pointed 
to many spots where sunshine and prosperity smil.'d and 



to others where the dark shade of sorrow and adversity 
seemed to rule the hour. Thus joy and sorrow rule al- 
ternately from childhood's valley to the plain of manhood. 
Here my mind pointed to many scenes of joy, others of 
sorrow, but my thought seemed to center on one spot of 
this plain; yes, I shall never forget that scene. It forms 
the greenest spot in memory's waste. That bright day 
in the Spring of the year where that sweet girl that I 
now with pleasure call my wife, yielded her heart and 
hand to me in the presence of friends and before high 
Heaven to love and cherish me as her husband. Ah, yes, 
I imagine now I can see those soft blue eyes and expres- 
sive countenance with virtuous love and child-like depen- 
dence saying: "With you I shall tread life's thorny path, 
with you will share the joys and sorrows of time and be 
to you a loving and affectionate wife, to console and en- 
courage you as we cross the rough sea of life and by 
my gentle counsel help to direct our frail bark into that 
Haven of Rest where love shall forever reign and where 
sorrow and parting are no more." And today I stand on 
the broad plain of manhood and she of womanhood, and 
she has proved to be all my fondest hope cherished. I 
loved her then as a timid maiden, now as the graceful 
mother of my children and woman of my first love. But 
hark! the mutterings of the drum arouses me from my 
revery and reminds me that I am a soldier; I must cease 
my writing as the Relief is coming and I must return 
to camp. 

APRIL 23— Remained in camp and read the news. The 
weather warm and sunny. Sent a letter to my wife. 

APRIL 24 (SABBATH)— Weather warm and showery; 
nothing of interest occurred. 

APRIL 25 — Got orders to be ready to march the next 
day at 6 o'clock a. m. Weather cold and very windy. 



ON THE MARCH. 

APRIL 26— This is a cledr bright day. The order to 
march was postponed until 3 o'clock p. m. When the 
rec^iment took up its line of march, while the band played 
a farewell saUxte to our old camp. We halted at Flat 
Creek for the night with orders to march again at 4 
a. m. the next day. 

APRIL 27 — On the march accordmg to orders towards 
Knoxville where we arrived at 11 o'clock and halted near 
the Fair Grounds for about one hour, when several wo- 
men came to bid farewell to their friends, when we 
started again the brass band in front of our regiment. 



and as we entered the city, lead off with a very solemn 
and impressive piece of martial music. We marched 
through the long and narrow street while thousands 
crowded on either side, some from idle curosity, some to 
see the discipline of the soldiers, while many others 
gazed with streaming eyes on departing fathers, broth- 
ers and sons; but the most painful part to me was to 
see the anxious wife as her eye caught a glimpse of her 
husband in that long line of men. She would rush boldly 
from the crowded sidewalk with tearful eyes and cling 
to him, whose stern military rule would not allow to 
leave the ranks to bid a long and to some a last farewell 
to the partner of his bosom. Thus we march on, many 
women following after until we came to Third Creek, 
where we halted for several hours to turn over our Aus- 
trian rifles and draw Springfields, during which time 
I left the regiment and started for home some eight miles 
below, where I arrived weary and exhausted about mid- 
night. 



AT HOME. 

APRIL 28th — This day I spent in the sweet society of 
my dear family. This to me would have been pleasure 
beyond description had it not been for the soul sickening 
thought of having to bid farewell to those lovely faces 
so soon and mingle again with the cold-hearted and 
wicked world and these dear ones left to mourn my long 
and distant absence. 

LEAVES HOME. 

APRIL 29— This morning I left hom« with a sad and 
heavy heart while my wife, mother and all gazed with 
anxious solicitude after my receding form and when I 
turned my wistful eyes to take one more view of the 
scenes of home, the sight of those dear ones v/as too 
much for my bleeding heart; the long pent up tears broke 
loose and gave vent to my feelings which gave a sad 
and sweet relief. So I nerved myself on and Vv'as once 
more on the broad sea of life and hope whispered: "be 
of good courage, the darkest time is jast before day." I 
got to Concord considerably relieved, but was disap- 
pointed about getting on the train, so I had to walk to 
Loudon, where I arrived late in the evening. 



ON THE MARCH. 

APRIL 30th — Loped the train this morning and long 
before night caught up with my command at Riceville, 
where I disembarked and joined my regiment and march- 
ed on to Calhoun, where we camped for the night. 

MAY 1 (SABBATH)— Removed today nearer the riv- 
er and was ordered to put up tents in regular order. 

MAY 2nd — Remained in camp all day and sent a letter 
home. Got orders to march at six o'clock next morning. 

MAY 3rd — On the march by daylight down the coun- 
try and camped at Blue Springs, five miles below Cleve- 
land, late in the evening. 

MAY 4th— On the road by daylight and landed at Red 
Clay, Georgia, at twelve o'clock, and went into regular 
camp. This night we v/ent to sleep without marching 
orders. 



RED CLAY, GEORGIA, 

MAY 5th — Today we had arms and cartridges inspected 
and ordered to send all unnecessary baggage to the rear. 
Men were detailed as hospital nurses, with orders to be 
ready to march at a moment's v/arning, all indicating a 
fight. 

MAY 6th — Lay still all day with orders to march next 
morning at daylight. 



ON THE MARCH. 

MAY 7th — Marched about six miles in the direction of 
Ringgold, when we came in contact with the Rebel pick- 
ets, which soon gave way. We then went toward Tunnel 
Hill, about a mile and halted for the night. About dark 
our company was sent on a half mile further for picket 
duty. Here I laid down by a fallen treen, with the earth 
for my bed, the heavens my covering, my knapsack for 
a pillovNr and slept as soundly as if I'd been on a good 
bed, and dreamed of home and my dear wife. I thought 
my head was pillowed on her bosom, my neck encircled 
in her arms, and she asked me to rise up, and called my 
name. Oh, what a disappointment when the vision van- 
ished! My head en a knapsack, my cartridge straps press- 
ing my neck, and, instead of my wife's gentle voice, the 
Sergeant of the guard was calling me to ^o on post. It 
was now ten o'clock and I remained on post until twelve, 
when I returned to the station and slept till day. 



10 



BUZZARD ROOST. 



MAY 8th (SABBATH)— This morning we marched off 
by the left flank, into a dense forest, where we began 
to form lines of battle, while skirmishing was going on in 
front. Thus we spent the day, sometimes marching in 
line, at other times by the right and left flanks, as oc- 
casion required. About sundown we ascended White Oak 
Mountain and marched along the top of this high and nar- 
row strip of land until we got near to a point called Bu/- 
zard[s Roost. It was now dark, and here was a view sur- 
passing description. On the north and east sides of thia 
mountain, from its top, far out into the valley, as far as 
the eye could reach, lay the Federal army with its un- 
numbered companies, while the sound of the bands, drums 
and fifes and the cheers of the soldiers filled the air with 
their confused noises. While on the south and west sides 
of this narrow strip lay the Confederate army with their 
innumerable camp fires, but silence that was almost pain- 
ful reigned throughout their camps. 

MAY 9th — Aroused by the pioneer corps clearing out 
a road for artillery, two pieces of which were drawn up 
by hand and placed in position. We were then drawn up 
in line and ordered to build breastworks along the top 
of this mountain, which being done we lay down behind 
to await the approch of the Rebs. We lay here till about 
12 o'clock, when we were relieved by a Brigade of the 
4th Army Corps, when we went back about a mile and 
descended into the valley on the enemy's side of the 
mountain. Here we formed a skirmish line and two lines 
of battle and moved off toward the Rebel breast-works. 
We marched on under tolerably heavy skirmish fire while 
ever and anon the hospital corps came bearing the dead 
and wounded to the rear. When we got within 300 or 
400 yards of their works, they opened on us with artillery, 
which caused a halt and some confusion, but soon our 
cannons were brought up and put in position when order 
was restored and we deployed in supporting distance of 
the battery to await the issue. In a few minutes a charge 
was made on Buzzard Roost point above us by the Bri- 
g'ade that relieved us, while heavy firing was going on on 
the left and artillery with us in the center that seemed to 
shake the mountain to its base; the whole being trerrific 
and sublime in the extreme. Both parties being very stub- 
born, the contest lasted until darkness put an end to the 
slaughter. Lay in lines of battle all night v/ith accourtre- 
ments on. 

MAY 10 — This morning the firing began by dayli,r:fht, 
but not very brisk. Slight skirmishing with a few can- 
non shots by way of variety. This morning I was much 



11 



pleased to hear the voice of singing and prayer at General 
McLean's headquarters, a thing that I am sorry to say had 
not been common at our headquarters. About 7 o'clock 
we faced by the rear rank and marched back about two 
miles, the officers saying it was to draw the enemy from 
their work, but I believe it was because they were too 
hard for our extreme left; so we fell back slowly and in 
good order and camped for the night. This day was show- 
ery and the evening indicated rain, so we fixed up some 
temporary shelters with our gum blankets and lay down 
to sleep. But about 10 o'clock dark and heavy clouds came 
up, the lightning flashed and heaven's artillery aroused 
us again and in a few minutes the wind and rain came m 
torrents which sweft our frail coverings away and exposed 
us to the fury of the storm. So up we got and after the 
wind ceased and succeeded in covering our bed agam, but 
not before we got a good drenching, so we had to sleep 
the remainder of the night with wet clothes and blankets. 

MAY 11 This morning I arose with a severe pain in 

my left side and breast, caused I suppose, by the ex- 
posure of the previous night. At daylight I could hear 
a few random shots away back in the rear, but as the 
day advanced I could hear no more. So we lay m camp 
enjoying the calm that followed the storm of the two 
previous days. Got orders this evening to march by day- 
light the next day with nine day's rations. 



RESACCA. 

MAY 12— This morning we started for Snake Creek 
Gap, twenty-two miles around on the right wing. Camped 
at night at Hubbard's Springs after dark. 

MAY 13 — Aroused this morning at 1 o'clock and on the 
march for the Gap where we arrived at 2 p. m., sleepy, 
tired and foot-sore. We rested about one hour, then form- 
ed in battle line and marched through very thick woods, 
swamps and brambles and stopped for the night in an open 
field where our company was sent on the skirmish line. 
I took a position by a large black gum tree and remained 
until midnight, when I was relieved and returned to the 
station and slept till day. 

MAY 14 This morning our Company was ordered tor- 
ward as skirmishes; we had not proceeded far when we 
came in contact with the Rebels and after some two or 
three hours heavy skirmishing we drove theni into their 
breastworks. We approached within 200 or oOO yards of 
their works on a brow of a hill overlooking their forts, 
and a narrow branch bottom that lay between us. Here 



12 

we were ordered to lie down and let the main lines of bat- 
tle pass over us. In a few minutes two lines with fixed 
bayonets and loud yells rushed boldly by us, down the hill 
into the narrow valley. Then commenced a scene of ter- 
rific and fearful sublimity far surpassing anything that 
has ever been my lot to witness, and I pray to God I 
may never see another such. The roar of cannon, the 
clash of small arms, the yell of the desperate charge, 
the piercing shriek of the wounded, the solemn groans of 
the dying — making in all a confused noise that was pain- 
ful in the extreme and caused the heart to bleed and 
baptize the soul in the waters of grief. This began about 
1 o'clock p. m. and was continued till darkness put an end 
to the slaugther, when I, with others, went into the val- 
ley of death to remove the wounded and dead; this was 
a painful and laborious duty, yet one I knew humanity 
required. So I did it cheerfully. Many of my friends and 
neighbors fell on this fatal day. 

MAY 15, (SABBATH)— This morning our corps which 
had done most of the fighting the day before was removed 
from the immediate front and retired a little to the rear 
to rest and reform its broken columns. Today I was 
asked to perform the last sad duties to my fellow com- 
rades by burying them as decently as could be under the 
circumstances. Late in the evening we were ordered to 
the left to support the 20th A. C. commanded by Maj. 
Gen. Hooker, who had passed around there early in the 
forenoon and had engaged the enemy at a desperate rate, 
but before we got to the secene of action, the Rebels 
gave way. When we stopped, I went into camp for the 
night. 



ON THE MARCH. 

MAY 16 — This morning all was quiet, the enemy hav- 
ing retreated in the night. We lay still until 12 o'clock, 
when we started, passing over a part of the battle field, 
which was a mournful sight, the enemy having left a great 
many of their dead and wounded in their hasty retreat. 
I was pleased, however, to see our ambulance gathering 
up the wounded and taking them to our hospital. We 
marched on while the road was strewn with garments, 
papers, broken guns and other baggage left by the Reb- 
els until we came to the Conasauga river, where we all 
stripped our clothes and forded the stream. We then went 
on until long after dark and stopped for the night at a 
cross roads. 

MAY 17 — This morning is dark and raining. We lay 



13 

here till 12 o'clock and I sent a letter home. About 1 
o'clock we were on the road again and marched until mid- 
night and stopped at a large spring, but as nearly all the 
citizens of the country were gone, I can give no names of 
places or distances. 

MAY 18 — Started this day again at 7 o'clock. I was 
much pained today to see our troops plundering houses, 
striping gardens and driving off milch cows amid the tears 
and entreaties of helpless women and children. We stop- 
ped for dinner at a mill where we captured several hun- 
dred barrels of flour. We laid here all night. 

MAY 19 — Aroused at 2 o'clock and on the road by day- 
light, went about 10 miles and stopped for dinner, rested 
two hours and then m^arched till long after dark and camp- 
ed in a large meadow. 

— — 

CASSVILLE AND HIGHTOWER BRIDGE. 

MAY 20 — This morning we marched on to Cassville, 
where we passed the 20th A. C, it having been in front 
up to this point. This had been a beautiful little village, 
but now deserted by its own citizens and ransacked by 
the soldiers, it presented a bad appearance. About two 
miles below this town v/e again encountered the enemy, 
but after some skirmishing and a few cannon shots, they 
gave way but not without losing a good many man as 
prisoners. We then marched down a beautiful valley 
spread out with waving wheat and corn fields which were 
all trodden down and destroyed by our advancing- posts. 
Camped for the night in a large meadow. 

MAY 21 — This morning we received the welcome news 
to rest for two days. This to the foot-sore and tired sol- 
dier was good news indeed. Rest! Rest! Rest! 

MAY 22, (SABBATH)— This is the Sabbath, the day 
set apart by the Lord for all his creatures to rest from 
their labors and contemplate the glorious works of cre- 
ation and adore their Creator. As my eye wandered over 
the mighty multitude of men in this pleasant valley, the 
Cjuestion arose in my mind how many of this vast assem- 
blage would bs so happy as to gain an admittance into 
that land of rest where war, sin and sorrow never enter 
and parting from friends is known no more and where 
Sabbath's never end. Today wrote a long letter to my 
wife, also one to my parents. Attended divine service 
this morning, also in the evening and heard good sermons. 



14 



ON THE MARCH. 



MAY 23 — This morning marched off in the direction of 
the right wing with 20 days' rations. Went about 8 or 
10 miles through a very fine country that spread out in 
waving wheat fields as far as the eye could reach, prom- 
ising a golden and abundant harvest, but alas! though I 
will not anticipate evil, for it comes too soon anyhow! 
Well we marched on to the Ooltoowah river, here we stop- 
ped for dinner in a beautiful grove near to a fine mansion, 
but the owner was gone. As the 20th and 4th A. C. 
had to cross over before us, we remained until morning. 

MAY 24 — Crossed the river before breakfast on a pon- 
toon made of canvas, went about a mile and stopped for 
further orders. Here we eat breakfast about 10 o'clock. 
We started again and went near three miles and met the 
enemy again, but after some brisk firing in which we lost 
one man, the Rebs gave way and we remained ail night. 
This night we had a hard storm of wind, rain and thun- 
der. 

MAY 25th — This morning all was quiet in front. We 
started in the direction of Dallas, Ga.; we marched until 
near dark when we came in hearing of a desperate fight 
between the 20th A. C. and the enemy that lasted about 
one hour. Here we stopped and put up our tents as it was 
raining hard. 



ALTOONA. 

MAY 26 — Long before day we were on the march, cross- 
ed Pumpkin Vine Creek and stopped for breakfast with 
30 minutes only allowed. We then marched about a mile 
and formed in line of battle and passed through a very 
thick woods a mile further and halted about two hours. 
Hearing skirmishing and cannonading a little to our right, 
after which we started again, marching by the right 
flank about two miles and gained a high point of land 
just in time to keep the Rebs from it, for they were ap- 
proaching on the other side, whereupon a heavy skirm- 
ish fire commenced, but we finally drove them back and 
built some breastworks of rails and other loose timbers. 
A little before sundown we formed in line and marched 
toward the enemy, when a terrible skirmish fight took 
place, but we succeeded in driving the enemy into their 
works a little after dark and when the firing ceased. I 
v/as on the skirmish line close to the Rebs breast works, 
and one poor fellow was left mortally wounded about half 
way between us and them and both parties were afraid to 



15 

go to him, although he begged very pitifully for help. 
He said he belonged to Company F, 24th Alabama. About 
10 o'clock in the night I was relieved and left the poor 
wounded man alone with his Maker in the dark and dreary 
woods. Our regiment left seven killed and eight wound- 
ed. 

MAY 27 — This morning the battle opened with renewed 
vigor on both sides, it remained about the same, nothing 
gained or lost on either side until about 1 o'clock p. m., 
then the 4th A. C. went around on the left, ours in the 
center, the 20th A. C. being on the right when we drove 
the Rebels back about a mile. This evening while clear- 
ing a fence, my foot caught in a rail and threw me across 
another and being very weak and tired after marching 
and fighting 32 days, I asked for an obtained a pass to 
go to the rear. About 10 o'clock at night the Brigade 
returned to the wagon yard and drew rations after fasting 
24 hours, after which we all lay down to sleep. About 1 
o'clock the Rebs began to press the front lines, so we had 
to start again and double quick to the skirmish line and 
support it till day. 

MAY 28th — The firing had been kept up all night, but 
this morning it commenced more vigorously. This day we 
gained ground by the foot, every inch being strongly con- 
tested. About 10 o'clock our Brig.-General came and told 
us we must advance our line 200 yards if it took every 
man in the Regiment, it being ordered and must be done. 
So as we went, the front rank going with fixed bayonets 
and firing as rapidly as possible, while the rear rank 
rolled and carried forward our breastworks of rails ,logs 
and rocks or anything else that would stop a bullet. In 
this way we gained the desired line and wonderful to 
tell, we lost not a man, although the bullets rained around 
us like hail. We remained here until about sundown when 
we were relieved by another regiment and we fell back 
to the second line, but this was not much relief to men 
who had been on the front line for three days and nights, 
for we had to lay in line with our accoutrements on ready 
to resist a charge that was threatened all night by heavy 
firing on the front line, it being only about 100 yards in 
our front. Thus we spent the night which was very hard 
to me as I was not well and suffering with the most 
severe headache I ever had. 



BURNT HICKORY. 

MAY 29 (SABBATH)— This morning I was completely 
exhausted and reported unable for duty, but remained with 
the Regiment, firing still going on, but not so brisk. Late 



16 

in the evening I went back to the rear to rest, but had 
not been there but a few minutes when the word came 
that our Brigade was relieved from the front and order- 
ed to Burnt Hickory, some 6 miles in the rear to rest. Ser- 
geant Turner, our Sergeant Major and myself all being 
on the sick list, we marched along slowly after the Bri- 
gade which left us far in the rear till long after dark, 
when we laid down by the roadside, weary and worn 
out and slept till day. 

MAY 30 — Today we caught up with the Brigade at 
Burnt Hickory when we went into regular camps. No 
one but the man who has tried it can tell what relief it 
is to lay aside his accoutrements and all his baggage and 
be permitted to rest free from his toils after so much ac- 
tive duties. This evening I wrote a letter to my wife. 
This night we slept undisturbed by the roar of guns, a 
thing we had not done for many days. 

MAY 31 — Remained in camp all day. Nothing of inter- 
est occurred and we were permitted to rest our weary 
limbs undisturbed. 

JUNE 1st — This is a clear, beautiful summer day, and 
we are still enjoying rest and shade. 



ON THE MARCH. 

JUNE 2nd — The weather v/arm and sultry. About two 
o'clock we had a hard storm of wind, rain and thunder. 
At five o'clock we were ordered to march again; so we 
were soon on the road in the direction of the left wing 
of our army. We marched awhile after dark and stopped 
for the night and laid on the lately wet grounds. 

JUNE 3rd — Today we continued to march till 10 
o'clock, when we halted. Heavy cannonading going on in 
front. About 4 o'clock our Brigade was formed in regu- 
lar order, when we started for the front again where we 
arrived a little before sundown, here we found a good line 
of breast works behind which we sheltered from the battle 
till morning. 

JUNE 4th — This morning was dark and raining, and 
to our surprise, the Rebels were all gone from our front. 
About 10 o'clock we moved a half mile further into an- 
other line of works. 

JUNE 5th (SABBATH)— Remained here all day and 
sent a letter home. 



17 



ALTOONA. 



JUNE 6th — Remained in the same place until after- 
noon, when we went three or four hundred yards and were 
ordered to put up tents in regular order. 

JUNE 7th — This morning we we were orderd to bo 
ready to march at six o'clock a. m., so we were soon on 
the march again. Went about two miles and were order- 
ed to put up tents again, in regular order. This day v/o 
lacked rations. 

JUNE 8th — Lay in camp all day with very little to eat, 
but meat and coffee, with no bread at all. Sent a letter 
home. 

JUNE 9th — Still in camp without bread, and very little 
else. This evening I went on picket and stood in a fine 
corn field. Drew rations and ordered to march next day. 



LOST MOUNTAIN. 

JUNE 10th — This morning was showery. Relieved from 
picket about 8 o'clock and joined the Regiment on the 
march toward the front, went about three miles when v/e 
met the enemy when our Company, Company C and Com- 
pany F, were deployed as skirmishes. We then advanced 
about a mile and were ordered to halt. We remained 
here about three hours during which time there was a 
terrible storm of wind and rain, and heaven's artillery 
dwindled ours into insignificance. Long after dark we 
again joined the Brigade after being relieved from the 
skirmish line. This evening the Rebels shelled us very 
heavy and continued it at intervals, through the nighc. 

JUNE 11th — This morning it rained again. Today we 
built a line of works. We occupied the top of a long- 
ridge while the Rebels occupied one fronting us three- 
fourths of a mile distant, in plain view. 

JUNE 12th (SABBATH)— This is a dark raiy morning, 
the mud is almost intolerable. This is Sabbath day, but 
no rest for the soldier, for, about ten o'clock we were 
ordered to relieve the First Tennessee Regiment while 
they went further to the left. We were now on the front 
line v/here we remained till morning, while it rained v/ith- 
out ceasing. Today I received letters from J. S. and W. 
F. Cummings, being the first line received since I left 
Tennessee. 

JUNE 13th — Still pouring down rain. Today I wrote a 
letter to W. F. Cummings. This evening it turned colder 
and ceased raining. 

JUNE 4th — Still in the breast works. Heavy skirmish- 
ing and cannonading going on all the time. We have been 



18 

two days without bread on account of the mud stopping 
the wagon train. This evening I was overjoyed at get- 
ting a letter from home, the first since I left. 



PINE MOUNTAIN. 

JUNE 15 — Cold and clear. This evening we advanced 
and took our line of the enemy's works without much 
resistance, but when the next line was approached a ter- 
rible fight ensued which lasted till dark. Our men built 
a line of works as close as they could to the Rebel's line 
under a heavy fire. B. W. Parham wounded. 

JUNE 16 — The firing this morning is very heavy. Our 
Regiment was sent on the skirmish line today, but I was 
not well and remained in the breast works with other 
convalescents. The Regiment did well today; they drove 
the enemy near a mile, killing 16, capturing 47 and I 
suppose wounded a great many others, as several was 
seen carried back. Our loss, one man killed and nine 
wounded. Got a letter from home. 

JUNE 17 — This morning the Rebels are retreating, but 
very slowly and stubbornly. We pressed them hard all 
day until night, when they threw themselves behind an- 
other line of strong works previously prepared, then com- 
menced an artillery duel that baffles description. Masked 
batteries on both sides that made the earth tremble be- 
neath their continual roar. Raining hard this evening. 
Our corps was sent a little to the right to protect the 
flank where we formed and stayed until morning. 



AROUND KENNESAW. 

JUNE 18 — This morning it is raining in perfect tor- 
rents, but the fight continues with renewed vigor. The 
roar of cannon and small arms keeping pace with the rain 
drops. Thus it was all day without a moment cessation 
and when I went to slepp at night it was still going on. 
Sent a letter home. 

JUNE 19 (SABBATH)— Still pouring down rain, but 
the fight is not so hard as the Rebs are giving way, our 
men following close after throwing shells into their rear. 
This is Sabbath day, but no rest for the soldier. We 
struck tent about 8 o'clock and marched after the re- 
treating army. Rain still pouring down. Today we wad- 
ed a creek that was over waist deep; went on until near 
night when we formed in line and stopped for the night. 

JUNE 20 — This morning there is no firing in our front, 



19 

but heavy cannonading far to the left. We laid here all 
day. This evening it rained hard again. The firing con- 
tinued on the left all day and when I went to sleep still 
going on. This day I wrote a letter to J. A. Doughty. 

JUNE 21 — This morning is dark and rainy. We got or- 
ders at midnight last night to march at daylight, but to- 
day they were countermanded, so we laid still all day. The 
fighting still goes on the left when I fell asleep. 

JUNE 22 — This morning is clear and the fighting has 
almost ceased, but as the day advanced the fighting in- 
creased. About 10 o'clock we struck our tents and march- 
ed about two miles when I noticed on a sign board at a 
fork of the road in large letters these fearful words: 

HELL'S HOTTEST FURNACE 
THREE-FOURTHS OF A MILE. 

So we took the road indicated by the sign board, and 
when we had gone about the distance spoken of, the Reb- 
els being masked in heavy force, made a charge on us and 
the 20th A. C. it being on our left. When they drove 
back or skirmishes and advanced until we could see their 
lines of battle moving close upon us, our artillery let off 
at them with grape and canister with such telling effect 
that they scattered and fled in confusion, leaving many 
of their dead and wounded in our hands. Here we built 
a strong line of works and remained until morning. 

JUNE 23 — This morning the firing in our front is not 
very brisk. About 12 o'clock we marched a half-mile and 
built a strong line of works and as fast as we got them 
done we were ordered near half a mile further where 
we built another line; when this was done I laid down and 
slept until morning. 

JUNE 24 — Remained behind our works all day. This 
evening I went on the skirmish line. Weather extremely 
warm. 

JUNE 25 — Still on skirmish line. Today we advanced 
our right. Very hard fighting. One hundred of our 
Regiment being on the skirmish line; we drove the Reb- 
els into their breast works and built a line under very 
heavy fire. I remained on the line until long_ after night 
when we were relieved and fell back to the Brigade where 
I lay down weary and exhausted. Returned my heartfelt 
thanks to God for his special protection during this fear- 
ful day. 

JUNE 26 (SABBATH)— This morning at daylight our 
Regiment marched back to the old line of works to rest. 
Remained about two hours when we were again ordered to 
the front where we built another line of works. Here we 
remained until morning. Heavy skirmishing all the time, 
the balls going over and around us. 



20 

JUNE 27 — This morning the roar of cannons was heard 
all along the line and as the day advanced, the fight be- 
came general. About 10 o'clock our Brigade was relieved 
from the front line and fell back a little distance and held 
ourselves ready to support any part of the line that might 
give way. The balls all day whizzing above and ai'ound 
us very thick, but not being wanted for support, we laid 
here till morning. I land down with others behind a log 
to shield us from the bullets. About 10 o'clock the mail 
come and brought me a letter from my dear wife, which 
made me forget and heed not the balls that whizzed by 
my ear. I then laid down behind my log and slept till 
day. 

JUNE 28 — This morning I was aroused by the roar of 
cannon and whiz of bullets over the log behind which I 
slept. Today I was relieved from duty on account of a 
severe pain in my right side and breast. Retired to the 
rear and answered my wife's letter. 

JUNE 29 — The firing still continued very rapid, but 
no general fight. Wrote a letter to M. R. Camp. 

JUNE 30 — Skirmishing still going on very brisk. About 
10 o'clock we had a hard rain accompanied with severe 
thunder. 

JULY 1st — Today our division was relieved by the 20th 
A. C, and we were ordered further to the right, marched 
about four miles where we passed the 3rd Division, when 
our division formed in line of battle. Our Company, 
Company C and F. of our Regiment deployed as skirm- 
ishers and marched toward the enemy, which we soon 
found. This was about 10 o'clock. We fought hard till 
dark, driving them about two miles and built a line of 
works. Captain Bearden today was in command of our 
Regiment and late in the evening was severely wounded 
in the foot. The command then fell on Captain Auamus. 
Again delighted with a letter from my wife. 

JULY 2 — This morning I was aroused with the roar of 
cannon on our left that was so rapid I could hardly dis- 
tinguish one shot from another; thus it continued until 
about 3 o'clock. This evening our BrigaJe was relieved 
from the front and went into regular camp to rest. 

JULY 3 (SABBATH)— This is Sabbath day and we are 
allowed to rest undisturbed, except for the roar of can- 
non that still continues on the left. Today I wrote a letter 
to my wife and about dark received one from her. Joy 
again. 



21 



SOUTH OF KENNESAW. 



JULY 4 — This is our day of National Independence, 
when were wont to meet in union and brotherly love to 
commemorate that great event. But alas! the roar of 
cannon and small arms that I now hear tells me in thun- 
der tones that we are unworthy the great blessing this 
day brought our fathers. We remained in camp all day. 

JULY 5 — Today we hear the Rebels have given up their 
stronghold on and around Kennesaw Mountain and are 
retreating towards Atlanta. About 10 o'clock we struck 
tents and marched towards the railroad; went about a mile 
and stopped where we stayed till morning. Today I was 
detailed to carry entrenching tools for the company as 
my side was too weak to wear a cartridge box. 



ON THE MARCH. 

JULY 6 — Today we marched to the railroad some four 
miles and went into regular camp. Cannonading all day 
in the direction of Chattahoochie river. 

JULY 7 — Remained in camp all day and I sent anoth- 
er letter home. Got orders this evening to be ready to 
march at six o'clock next morning. 

JULY 8 — Up early and ready by set time. So we 
marched off, going east towards the left of our army. 
Marched on till long after dark and camped in sight of 
the Chattahoochie river, hungry, tired and nothing to eat. 

JULY 9 — About 8 o'clock today we drew rations, eat 
breakfast and then crossed the river and camped on a 
high hill. The day was extremely warm. About dark 
the Third Tennessee and our Regiment was ordered to 
leave tents and other baggage and be ready to march 
at a minutes' warning. In a few moments we were 
blundering along, for it was very dark with slight rain. 
Went about two miles and took a position on a high and 
narrow ridge and remained till morning. 



CHATTAHOOCHIE. 

JULY 10 (SABBATH)— Today the remainder of the 
Brigade moved out to this ridge when we built a strong 
line of works along its top and then camped in irregular 
order on account of rocks and other obstacles in the way. 

JULY 11 — This morning very warm. Laid in camp all 
day. 

JULY 12 — This morning all is quiet on the line. Laid 
still all day. Wrote a letter home. 



22 

JULY 13 — All quiet today. Nothing of interest oc- 
curred. Could not even hear cannon. 

JULY 14 — This morning got orders to march, went 
about two miles and stopped on the left of the 4th A. C, 
where we put up tents again and built a strong line of 
breastworks. This day very warm and tonight we had 
a terrific storm of wind, rain and thunder. 

JULY 15 — This morning is clear and warm. Some can- 
nonading on the right, skirmishing in front. 

JULY 16 — Remained in camp all day. Nothing of in- 
terest occurred. Got orders thos evening to march at 6 
the next day. 



ON THE MARCH. 

JULY 17 (SABBATH)— Started today according to or- 
ders, went about three miles and met the enemy, when 
our Company, Company A and F, were sent on as skirm- 
ishers. We drove them about three miles and stopped 
and built another line of works. Today God's favor was 
shown to us in a remarkable manner, for we drove the 
enemy from several strong positions and had but one man 
hurt and he slightly. Got a letter from home. 

JULY 18 — This morning I wrote a letter to my wife. At 
10 o'clock we marched back in the direction of Decatur; 
went about ten miles and camped for the night. Got an- 
other letter from home. 

JULY 19 — On the march early this morning; went 
about four miles when we met the enemy, the 4th Bri- 
gade being in front. We drove the enemy on through 
Decatur. Here we captured 6,000 coffee pots and other 
tin ware. Our Brigade was not engaged today. A while 
before night we turned in the direction of Atlanta, went 
near a mile and camped for the night. 

JULY 20 — On the road early. Went two miles and stop- 
ped three hours. All this time heavy skirmishing going 
on in front. Went a mile and formed in line of battle, 
the 3rd Tennessee on skirmish drove the Rebs a half mile 
under a fearful fire. About 4 o'clock in the evening our 
Regiment relieved the 3rd Tennessee and made a charge 
on the enemy's line, capturing 30 or 40 and run the rest 
into their breastworks, when we halted and built a good 
line of works. Today our Regiment lost one killed and 
10 wounded. M. D. Lea of our Company wounded and 
sent back; Sergeant Strum slightly. 



23 



AROUND ATLANTA. 



JUijif 21 — This morning the Rebel balls are whizzing 
over our works. Rapid heavy cannonading all along the 
line. 

JULY 22 — This morning the enemy has gone from our 
front, so we were soon on the road towards Atlanta, it 
being about three miles distance. All I think, believed the 
enemy entirely gone and that we would march right into 
Atlanta, for we marched by the flank very careless, Gen- 
eral Sherman and others in front. But when we got in 
sight of town the Rebels opened on us with artillery at 
a desperate rate, which brought us to a halt and in lin3 
of battle on quick time. Here we built breastworks under 
very heavy artillery fire in plain view of the city. This 
evening the army of Tennessee under General McPher- 
son had a desperate fight with the Rebs a little to our 
left. A great many killed and wounded on both sides. 
Among the killed was General McPherson, an able and 
efficient officer. Thus in the fortunes of war the great 
and small fall together. 

JULY 23 — This day was spent in strengthening our 
works; our cannon throwing shells into the city, slow but 
regular. 

JULY 24 (SABBATH)— Today is the Sabbath, but from 
what you can see in camp, it seems that soldiers have 
little or no regard for the Lord's Day. Sent letter home. 

JULY 25th — Still in our works our cannon shelling the 
city reguarly. Got a letter from home and one from my 
sister Agnes. 

JULY 26 — Heavy cannonading all around the line. To- 
day I sent a letter to my friends in H. H. 

JULY 27 — Today we moved back to the rear of the 
two first lines and built the third line. 

JULY 28 — Today the enemy shelled us heavily, which 
made us keep close to the works. 

JULY 29 — Sent a letter home. Most of our Regiment 
on skirmish line. Cannonading heavy. 

JULY 30 — Got a letter from home today. I sent all 
my wife's letters, which I have carefully preserved, back 
to her by Lieut. Coleman, who resigned and started back 
for Tennessee. About this time our Colonel was promot- 
ed to the rank of Brigadier.-Gen. 

JULY 1 (SABBATH)— The fighting today is mostly 
on the right. The evening is rainy. Today is Sabbath, 
but badly spent by myself, for which I feel sad tonight. 

AUGUST 1st — Got orders this evening to strike tents 
immediately after dark. Weather warm and cloudy. Be- 
ing relieved by the 4th A. C, we marched till long after 
dark and laid down by the roadside and slept until day. 



24 

This march was in the direction of the right wing. 

AUG 2nd — On the march by daylight. Weather warm 
and cloudy. Today we marched eight miles and found 
the enemy and after some skirmishing, we camped for 
the night. Received a letter from home. 

AUGUST 3 — This morning I answered my wife's letter. 
About 12 o'clock we marched off a due south course. 
Passed through the 3rd Division, formed in line, deployed 
skirmishers from the Brigade and marched toward the 
Rebels, whom we soon found. With hard fighting we 
drove them across a large creek and over a high ridge on 
the top of which we built a strong line of works under a 
heavy fire from three Batteries of the enemy. This even- 
ing it rained at a terrible rate. About twelve o'clock we 
lay down our weary bodies to rest and sleep. Returned 
my thanks to God for His protection this fearful day. 

AUGUST 4— This morning the Rebel shells and bullets 
are whizzing over and around us with considerable vim. 
This evening we had a terrible artillery duel, the enemy's 
shells and our guns bursting and roaring until you could 
hardly hear your own voice. Ordered to stay close in 
camps as a forward movement is expected. 

AUGUST 5 — Laid behind breastworks all day. Heavy 
firing. Several bullets bursting in our camp. Got orders 
to march next day at four o'clock. 

AUGUST 6— Relieved this morning by the 14th A. C, 
About seven o'clock we started toward the right; went 
about three miles and began heavy skirmishing; drove 
the enemy about one mile, slowly, when our Brigade was 
ordered to lay aside knapsacks and other impediments 
as we had to charge the Rebel works and one section of 
the Artillery. We had to charge nearly a mile through 
an open field which exposed us to a galling fire from three 
sides. We gained their works but they got their artillery 
away. Then, finding we were nearly a mile in advance of 
our main line, we had to fall back, thereby losing the 
ground we had gained at so dear a cost. In th's charge 
we lost a great many men. In our Regiment Capt. Wni. 
Lea was mortally wounded. Benjamin Stagg=i, of our 
Company, was wounded as was also Wm. Bargar. Laid 
in line all night, cold, wet and hungry. 

AUGUST 7 (SABBATH)— Today we built a strong line 
of works and had just got them done when we were or- 
dered to march. Went about one mile, when the front 
Brigade engaged the enemy at a feartul rate. While they 
were fighting we built another line of works under great 
excitement. Here we come to the works the enemy had 
Held the day before when the 3rd Div.sion had charged 
and been repulsed, with heavy loss. So we found many of 
our dead here that were left the dav uefore. Just as we 



25 

completed our works, we were ordered c half mile further 
and built another line after dark, making' three strong 
lines for this day. Laid down about midnight, completely 
exhausted, and slept until day. 

AUGUST 8 — Heavy cannonading all along the line. This 
morning it rained very hard. This evening we went about 
a mile and commenced another line of works, but before 
we got them done, we were ordered thre^ or four hundred 
yards further and worked till midnight again. Today 
sent a letter home. 

AUGUST 9 — This morning we completed our works. The 
best we have made in Georgia, and had just got done when 
we were ordered over the ridge opposite us and after 
some skirmishing we built another line of works under 
the enemy's cannon. 

AUGUST 10 — This morning is dark and drizzling. About 
one o'clock we marched a half mile and built another line. 
Here we got orders to put up tents in regular order. 

AUGUST 11 — Still in camp without marching orders. 
Today I wrote a long letter to my friends in general and 
sent it in Henry's letter. Today we drew clothing, which 
v/as badly needed. 

AUGUST 12 — Nothing of interest occurred. Heavy 
skirmishing. 

AUGUST 13— The Rebels shelling us occasionally all 
day. 

AUGUST 14 (SABBATH)— This is Sabbath day and 
O, how much joy it would give me to be at home and 
take my dear family and go up to the house of God and 
worship Him there far removed from these scenes of 
cruelty sin and bloodshed. Today I read a pamphlet 
through entitled "Christ Alone." 

AUGUST 15 — Remained in camp all day. This evening 
I got a letter from home. Ben got one from his wife 
and Henry got three. So we had a pov/erful reading of 
letters, it being a great source of pleasure to hear from 
the loved ones at home. 

AUGUST 16 — Today ninety men of our Regiment were 
detailed to build a fort. I worked all day. 

AUGUST 17 — The work on forts and breastworks con- 
tinued. I sent a letter home. 

AUGUST 18 — Today we struck tents and marched fur- 
ther to the right and stopped behind a works made by 
the 3rd Division, they having gone further to the right. 

AUGUST 19 — This morning we were called into line an 
hour before day, but did not move until 12 o'clock. We 
Vv'ere then ordered to leave our tents and knapsacks with 
the convalescents. Then Vv^e went about two miles and 
built two bridges across a creek without opposition from 
the enemy. We then returned to camp. 



26 

AUGUST 20 — Marched out over the same road we went 
over the day before, leaving our tents standing. But to- 
day we went three or four miles further and had consid- 
erable skirmishing with the enemy. We finally stopped 
on a commanding point and built some temporary works 
of rails. We remained here until nearly night when we 
were ordered back to camp where we arrived after dark 
tired, muddy, hungry and wet, for it rained all evening. 
Today our company was on skirmish line. 

AUGUST 21 (SABBATH)— This is the Sabbath day 
when all should cease from labor and especially the sol- 
dier, but instead of this the roar of cannon is more terrific 
than usual. We remained in camp all day. This was a 
dark, lonsome rainy day, confining us to our little tent. 
I took up my testament and read a few chapters then 
put it down for a few minutes' reflection when the famil- 
iar scenes and lovely faces of home came vividly to my 
mind. Many Sabbaths had I spent with my lovely and 
Christian wife and listened to the sweet prattle of my 
dear children, and often watched the deep attention of my 
good old mother as she would sit for hours gazing through 
her spectacles at the word of God that lay on her lap. 
So I took up my pen and paper and wrote a letter eight 
pages long to my wife and mother and sent it in the 
next mail. 

AUGUST 22 — Remained in camp all day and wrote two 
letters for my brother Henry. One to Sister Agnes, the 
other to Brother Whitle, making in all eight pages again. 

AUGUST 23— Nothing of interest occurred. Today I 
wrote a letter to my wife on business matters alone, and 
sent it in one Brother Benjamin wrote home. 

AUGUST 24 — There was right smart cannonading to- 
day. Skirmishing about as usual. Today I wrote a long 
letter to my father-in-law in relation to the manner in 
which he has treated that lovely daughter of his who is 
my wife. Received a letter today from W. F. Cummins. 

AUGUST 25 — Today we had arms inspection. Heavy 
cannonading a little to our right and some in front. 

AUGUST 26 — Some firing with artillery today, skirm- 
ish fire is always going on. 

AUGUST 27— Today and most of the night the 14th 
A. C, was passing by us to the right. 



ON THE MARCH. 

AUGUST 28th (SABBATH)— This is Sabbath day, but 
we are under marching orders, therefore we will see but 
little rest today. About ten o'clock we marched off toward 
the right. Went a mile or so and stojjped. While here 



27 

the stretcher bearers were sent for to bring a young man 
that was wounded on the skirmish line, but long before 
they came back with him, he was a lifeless corpse, being 
shot in the shoulder, ranging down the back. This young 
man, as many other good-hearted boys, had become ad- 
dicted to gambling and the night before had won a con- 
siderable amount of money. He had his pocket book in 
his pants and no doubt was thinking of his good fortune 
when the fatal ball struck him. He said but a few words 
and his spirit was ushered into the presence of his maker 
to give an account of his deeds done while at home, while 
in the army, and how the hours of the last night of his 
life was spent. The circumstances of this young man's 
life and death made a very serious impression on mv 
mind and I hope it will be of service to many thoughtless^ 
young men in our Regiment. Late in the evening wa 
started again and marched till long after dark; very tired 
and hungry. This day I was very much depressed in spir- 
its. We were cut off from communication with home and 
could receive no letters from home, which to a soldier is 
very grevious as he prizes them above anything else. We 
were also, so far as I could learn, cut off from our base 
of operation, by our own volition, thereby indicating a 
desperate struggle to dissolve the Rebel army from At- 
lanta, either by cutting off their supplies or by desperate 
fighting, either of which seemed to me a fearful under- 
taking. So I went to sleep with a sad and heavy heart. 

AUGUST 29 — This morning we drew rations and march- 
ed back the road we came about a mile and a half and 
laid down in the woods for two or three hours. We then 
marched back, passed the place we stayed at the night be- 
fore and went on about two miles and stopped again when 
we were told- to go to getting supper, as we would stay 
all night. Our Division is now guarding the wagon and 
ambulance train. 

AUGUST 30 — This morning we got orders to be ready 
to march at six o'clock. About nine o'clock we started 
and marched slowly until about two o'clock when we came 
to the West Point Railroad which was a complete wreck, 
the trees all being burned and the rails bent and twisted 
at a terrible rate. Marched long this road in the direction 
of Atlanta for about a mile and stopped. When we start- 
ed again, we left the wagon train and marched off for the 
front where we arrived about sundown and formed in line 
and camped for the night. 

AUGUST 31 — Orders came at midnight last night to 
march at 4:30 o'clock this morning. So we were on the 
road before sun up and marched, at quick time, two or 
three miles when we halted, formed in line of battle and 
marched through the wood until we gained a commanding 



28 

position. Then we stacked arms and laid down in peace 
to await further orders. In about two hours we went about 
one mile further and did as before. About 3 o'clock we 
started again in the direction of Atlanta and marched first 
one road then another in order to skirmish the whole 
country and stopped for the night ten miles due south 
of Atlanta. Today we had slight skirmishing with the 
enemy's cavalry and took two lines of works. This night 
our Regiment was due on the skirmish lines. This is last 
day of this eventful summer v/hich the future histor- 
ian will put down as one of trouble above any that the 
American people have ever been called on to suffer. The 
blood of many a father's son has mingled with the dust 
of the battlefield; many a mother's heart has bled for 
the lovely boys that fell on the bloody hills around Rich- 
mond or in the dark and dreary forests of Georgia; many 
a heart broken wife will spend the remaining days of a 
widowed life mourning over broken ties and the hopes of 
her youth, now blasted and withered, leaving her heart a 
desert waste where the green and fresh flowers of life 
can never again flourish, but sorrows veil will cover her 
remaining days as she mourns over joys and hopes — de- 
parted never to return. The surviving soldier will cause 
the tears to flow and the hart to bleed of children yet 
unborn, when he narrates the long, hungry and weary 
marches, the bloody and desperate battles that have mark- 
ed nearly every day of this dreadful summer. Weary of 
war and bloodshed, tired and worn is the wailing cry that 
sweeps the heart-strings of thousands of earth's children! 
How few there are who escape the trials and afflictions 
that find utterance in this low moan; sorrow is stamped 
on every brow as legible as though graven there by the 
hand of man; the furrowed brow, the glcomy shadows 
there, all proclaim that life has lost its charm. At the 
beginning four years of war seemed a long and weary 
pilgrimage, but now" in the language of another, it seems 
but a step, and yet along the way are broken shrines 
where a thousand hopes have wasted to ashes, footprints 
sacred under their drifting dust; green mounds v/here 
grass is fresh with the watering of tears, shadov/s ever 
which we Vvould not forget. We will garner the sunshine 
of those years and with chastened steps and hopes push 
on toward the evening whose signal lights will soon be 
seen swinging Vv^here the waters are still and the storms 
of war, sin and sorrow never beat. 

SEPTEMBER 1st — Ordered to march this morning by 
daylight. Last night at intervals Vv^e could hear heavy 
cannonading away to the right in the direction of Jones- 
borough on the Macon railroad. At daylight this morning 
it began very rapid; Vv-e could also hear hoavy volleys of 



29 

small arms. Our Brigade was on the march by daylight; 
went about a mile and formed in line of battle and stacked 
arms to wait further orders. While we laid here the con- 
tinued roar of artillery told too well that two mighty ar- 
mies were struggling with earnestness for the possession 
of the Macon railroad. While here a Brigade of Cavalry 
passed in our front. About 2 o'clock we started in the 
direction of Jonesborough, passing along the line of the 
Macon railroad which was a complete wreck. This march 
was on quick time, the dust and smoke from the burning 
railroad making it very disagreeable; many gave out 
and the railroad was thick with broken down men. Heavy 
cannonading all day in front; camped for the night in a 
large field, weary and exhausted. Cannonading all night 
both in front and rear. 

SEPTEMBER 2— Orders to march at 6 o'clock. Started 
about 8 o'clock and marched all day and marched on the 
flank of 4th A. C, which was pressing enemy close they 
being in full retreat. A while before sundown the enemy 
took position on a long ridge when a desperate skirmish 
fight took place, but before our Main force could get up, 
darkness put an end to further fighting, except skirmish- 
ing all night. Heavy cannonading all evening, a little to 
our right. This day my heart was pained to witness the 
mangled and wrecked condition of the enemy's wounded, 
hundreds of whom were laid along the road side, a great 
many crowded in the houses and barns, all in a very piti- 
ful condition, being left by retreating army with little or 
no provision for their comfort. This day a mystery of my 
life was solved by the manner in which the spider connects 
his web from one distant point to another. This I observed 
while resting. 

SEPTEMBER 3 — This morning we are fronting the en- 
emy in their breastworks in heavy force and while I write 
their bullets are whizzing around me, while heavy artil- 
lery fire is going on in less than half a miles. This 
morning just before day we had a hard rain accompanied 
with heavy thunder. About 7 o'clock heavy skirmishing 
began which lasted all day; late in the evening our Bri- 
gade moved out in line across the top of a ridge and 
built a line of works. This evening it rained from noon 
until night. About dark we drew rations. 

SEPTEMBER 4 (SABBATH)— This morning is dark 
and cloudy, heavy skirmishing going on all night and 
more so this morning. Today is the Sabbath, but all things 
go on just the same as any other day; cursing and pro- 
faning the Lord's name, gambling, fighting and all man- 
ner of wickedness. When, oh! when will this wicked gen- 
eration be humbled; for it seems that the terrible judg- 
ments of God that are seen on every hand, instead of 



30 

making them thankful and humble for their own preser- 
vation make them more desperately wicked. They in- 
sult their Maker to his face by the most gross and out- 
rageous sins, therefore I fear that God will soon say in 
his justice: "Mercy has reached her appointed bounds, cut 
them down and assign them their positions with all who 
work iniquity and blaspheme his name and profane his 
Holy Sabbath day, where their worm dieth not and the fire 
is not quenched." Late this evening we were ordered to 
be ready to move immediately, so we packed up and stood 
around about one hour and were ordered to put up tents 
again, as the order was countermanded. 

SEPTEMBER 5— This morning and last night heavy 
skirmishing going on with right sharp cannonading; this 
continued all day, but was more vigorous towards night. 
This evening dark and heavy clouds came up and we had 
a heavy rain which continued long after dark. A day or 
so ago General Sherman returned his thanks to the army 
for their brave and gallant conduct during this campaign 
which reached its climax with the capture of Atlanta. So 
at 8 o'clock we struck tents and started for the above 
named place and of all the marches I ever took this sur- 
passed them, for dark and muddy traveling; splash, splash, 
belter, skelter in the mud, wading creeks and falling and 
rolling was the order of the night until day dawn, when 
I suppose we were as muddy and worn out set of men 
as ever has been seen in Georgia. 

SEPTEMBER 6— This morning we stopped in a large 
field beside the railroad, prepared and eat breakfast and 
laid down and slept till nearly 12 o'clock, when we drew 
rations for three days. About 2 o'clock it began to rain 
very hard and continued until nearly night. Orders came 
at dark to be ready to march at 5 o'clock next morning. 

SEPTEMBER 7 — This is a dark and gloomy morning. 
About 7 o'clock we started on the Decatur road and 
marched at quick time all day and camped for the night 
six miles south of Atlanta. This day I was grieved to 
see dark and heavy columns arising in our rear from 
burning houses which were considered valuable for the 
enemy; such as mills, tanneries or anything for the use 
of the public. In this way thousands of dollars worth of 
property was destroyed, done upon, I suppose, the plea 
of military necessity to deprive the enemy from its use. 

SEPTEMBER 8 — This morning we were ordered to 
move half after seven o'clock when we started and march- 
ed on quick time to Decatur, six miles east of Atlanta. 
We camped in an old field in sight of the village. On 
the 19th of July we drove the enemy through this village 
and then turned towards Atlanta and fought, m.arched 
and built breastworks all around this city, making a cir- 



31 

cuit of over 100 miles, coming back to the same place 
this day. This evening I received a letter from home 
that made my heart glad again to hear that my dear wife 
and sweet children were well. This was the first for 
many days. 



DECATUR. 

SEPTEMBER 9— This is a clear, beautiful day. Noth- 
ing of interest occurred. Laid still all day with but little 
to eat. Today I sent a letter to my wife and one page 
to each one of my dear children. 

SEPTEMBER 10— This morning we have nothing at 
all to eat. At 12 o'clock we drew three days rations. 
Nothing of interest occurred. I spent most of my time 
reading Hannah Moore's work on practical piety, a very 
able and pious book, full of consolation to the Christian 
under affliction, and wholesome advice while in prosper- 
ity. 

SEPTEMBER 11 (SABBATH)— This morning we had 
arms inspection. This is a beautiful Sabbath day, the sky 
has assumed a peculiar, clear and beautiful blue, com- 
mon to this season of the year, that impresses the mind 
of the thinking beholder with feelings of awe and rever- 
ence as he contemplates the purity, beauty and sublimity 
of the work of One who is infinite in power, goodness and 
wisdom, and raises the thoughts, hopes and desires of 
the soul from its own weakness, imperfections and death 
to that great Fountain of life, immortality and glory be- 
yound this vale of tears. For here we see fading and 
decay on every hand. The fresh and lovely flowers of 
spring are faded and gone; the summer's beautiful garb 
of majestic green is yielding to the pale and sickly yellow 
of perishing decay. The once fresh and vigorous stalk 
has repaid the husbandman for his toil with its golden 
harvest, and is now crumbling back to its mother dust. 
This is the mild and gentle lesson that whispers in our 
car and tells us in sweet and melancholly tones that this 
world is not our home and that soon the place that 
knows us now will soon know us no more, forever. While 
thinking of these kind and merciful lessons of God in 
Nature, I was forcibly struck with the terrible events of 
the last summer, brought on us by the wild and wicked 
prejudice and ambition of sinful man. Alas! how this 
cruel war has augmented that wailing cry in the world 
of woe. Oh! what a fearful responsibility rests on the 
shoulders of the men, who by their position and influence 
govern and control the masses of this generation. Re- 



32 

sponsibility freighted with blood and life, and to some 
extent the souls of thousands of their fellowmen. These 
are the terrible judgments of God sent on us for our sins 
that speak to us in thunder tones to wean our affection?; 
from this world and remind us that here we have no 
permanent abiding place, but that we mur.t shortly ap- 
pear before Him to render an account of our stewardship. 
Well, if neither the mild and gentle mercies, nor the 
dreadful judgments of God will cause us to humble our- 
selves and forsake our sins, when Oh! when will we. A 
sad echo answers when. About sundown two Christian 
men of our Regiment came to my tent and asked me to 
go with them beyond the noise and bustle of camps for 
the purpose of religious exercises. So we three v/ent to 
a beautiful grove where the stillness and silence of nature 
reminded us us of the many blessed, but then unappre- 
ciated, oportunities to worship in peace, to meet Chi-istians 
in the silent grove, camp meeting or other religious oc- 
casions to offer prayer and supplications to our Heavenly 
Father. Here we spent a few hours in singing, prayer 
and religious conversation; after which we returned to 
camp to mix and and mingle again with the cold-hearted 
and wicked world. 

SEPTEMBER 12— Nothing of note occurred today. We 
stayed in camp all day until nearly night, when our Regi- 
ment went on picket, but was relieved a while before 
midnight, as we were ordered to be ready to march by 
daylight next day. Today I sent a long letter dated 11 
and 12 to my wife, mother and all. 

SEPTEMBER 13— This morning we were ready to 
march by the time set. We v/ere told to leave our tents 
and all Ijut guns and accoutrements as our Brigade was 
only going to Atlanta to satisfy the curiosity of the sol- 
diers, who were going in and through the city they had 
fought all around with so much patience and bravery. So, 
as my legs were paining me a great deal, I remained in 
camp with a few others who were not so full of curiosity. 

SEPTEMBER 14— Today about 12 o'clock we marched 
out to a beautiful grove nearly a half mile from Decatur 
toward Atlanta and went into regular camp. Today I 
sent a long letter to my parents, brother and sisters dated 
the 13th, also one to James Sterling. 

SEPTEMBER 15— Today we are all pleasantly situat- 
ed in our new camp, all engaged in talking over pasi 
hardships and v/riting letters to our friends and relations 
Today John N. Strange and William McClure, who were 
left sick at Knoxville, camento camp. This morning wa? 
very warm. The moon shone with resplendent beauty. Sent 
a letter to J. Rudder. 

SEPTEMBER 16— This day I spent most of the time 



S3 

in penning down my thoughts hopes and desires to my 
wife. A little after sundown I and four others retired 
to a silent grove for meditation and prayer and remained 
until late at night. Before this time only three had been 
doing this and getting great comfort. But tonight our 
camp was augmented to five and we had a splendid time 
listening to a young man who says he has found the Pearl 
of great price since we started this campaign. This was 
good news to us. 

SEPT 17 — This morning is cold and windy, indicating 
the near approach of winter. This evening four of us 
went to the grove again and I hope were benefitted. 

SEPTEMBER 18 (SABBATH) This is the Sabbath day, 
but the weather is dark and gloomy so we are all con- 
fined to our little tents. I spent the day in reading, and 
writing a letter to my dear mother. When the mail came 
in I received a letter from Lewis C. Christian in answer 
to one I sent the 13th of July to my brother Sampson; 
as it fell into Lewis' hands first, he wrote me the first) 
news I'd had of him in three years. 

SEPTEMBER 19— Today our Regiment went foraging 
and I spent the day in reading and writing. 

SEPTEMBER 20— Nothing worthing of note occurred. 
This evening our little prayer meeting increased from 
three to nine. 

SEPTEMBER 21— Dark and rainy. Today I completed 
a long letter or rather a review of six years of my life. 
This night we had a very interesting meeting in the grove. 

SEPTEMBER 22 — This evening is dark and drizzling. 
Nothing of interest occurred. 

SEPTEMBER 23— Today is still showery. About night 
it rained hard. Today I answered W. F. Cummins' let- 
ter. 

SEPTEMBER 24 — Very hard rain just at daylight. 
About 12 o'clock clear and windy. This evening I re- 
ceived a letter from my wife that was full of Christian 
consolation, its language told me that she was under th? 
influence of God's love to a great extent while writing it. 
This was a source of great satisfaction to me. This night 
we had a prayer meeting in the grove that will be remem- 
bered by me and others when other, seemingly important, 
events are long forgotten, for the love of God filled our 
heaits in a way that will always be remembered with 
feeling of pleasure. 

SEPTEMBER 25 (SABBATH)— This day was a beau- 
tiful Sabbath. I spent the day very pleasantly reading 
writing and conversing on religion and its experimental 
effects on our own hearts with some Christian brethren, 
O, how delightful thus to spend the Sabbath day in hope 
of one that will never end. 



34 

SEPTEMBER 26— Today is quite cold to what it has 
been. Completed a letter to my wife and mailed it with 
one to my father; both in the same enevelope, his dated 
24th. Nothing unusual occuring in camp foi ceveral davs. 

SEPTEMBER 27— Today is warmer than the last two 
indicating rain. Nothing of interest happened. 

SEPTEMBER 28— This day was cloudy with slight rain. 
I spent it mostly writing. Attended church tonight in 
town. 

SEPTEMBER 29— Today is still warm with slight rain. 
I sent a letter home to my wife dated 28. This evening 
our Regiment was paid off for six month's service. 

SEPTEMBER 30— Today is warm and mostly clear. To- 
day is the last day of the month and decaying nature on 
all sides admonish us that the vigor of our life is passing 
away. 

OCTOBER 1— This morning I went on picket duty. Noth- 
ing of interest. 

OCCTOBER 2 (SABBATH)— Still on picket duty. The 
Division went foraging, so was not relieved as usual. To- 
day is the Sabbath, so I spent the time mostly reading 
when not on duty. At night it rained fearfully. 

OCTOBER 3 — This morning I was relieved from picket 
duty and returned to camp in very bad health. At 12 
o'clock we got orders to march with half baggage, so we 
packed up, but after tv/o hours ordered to put up tents 
again and remain till morning. 

ON THE MARCH. 

OCTOBER 4— Today we started about 7 o'clock and 
marched until 11 o'clock at night and lay dov»^n on the 
roadside of Chattahoochie river near the bridge. 

OCTOBER 5— Ordered to march by daylight, but did not 
start until 9 o'clock. Marched up the railroad to Mariet- 
ta, haulted about two hours and started again and camp- 
ed two miles north of Kennesaw about 9 o'clock. Very 
tired. 

OCTOBER 6 — This morning awhile before day, the rain 
commenced falling and continued until 12 o'clock very 
hard. About 8 a. m. we started in the direction of Lost 
Mountain. Went six miles and about faced and went on 
the Altoona road one mile and then turned back again 
and camped for the night about 5 miles from the start- 
ing point this morning. 

OCTOBER 7 — This is a clear bright morning and we 
are laying around drying our wet blankets and other 
accoutrements from yesterday's rain. Stayed here all day. 



35 



ALTOONA STATION. 



OCTOBER 8 — Last night the wind was very high from 
the north and continued all day, cold and chilly. At 3 
p. m. we marched off towards Altoona Station on the 
raih'oad where we arrived at 8 o'clock. 

OCTOBER 9 (SABBATH)— Cold and windy. Drew one 
days' rations of hardtack. Lay here until about sundown 
when our Regiment was ordered towards the river about 
three miles to guard the supply train that had passed on 
awhile before night. Camped at the old iron works, which 
is now a wreck. This is the Sabbath day, but gambling, 
trading, swearing and all manner of wickedness is the 
order of the day with most of the soldiers; a few excep- 
tions to the rule, thank God. 



ON THE MARCH. 

OCTOBER 10— This morning cold with considerable 
frost; the wind has ceased and it is a beautiful day. At 
8 o'clock we were ordered to roll up and be ready to march. 
About 11 o'clock we started and marched at quick time 
to Cassville, where we arrived after dark, very tired and 
camped for the night. Drew three days rations. 

OCTOBER 11— This morning we started at 6 o'clock 
and m.arched to Kingston on quick time; went four miles 
on the road to Rome and stacked arms and remained till 
morning. Got three letters from home. 

OCTOBER 12— Started this morning at 6 o'clock and 
marched to Rome, camped for the night with orders to 
draw three days rations and be ready to march next day 
at 5 o'clock. Cannonading in front. 

OCTOBER 13— On the road by sun up and marched 
through Rome, which resembles the ancient city from its 
description of resting on its seven hills. This is a nice 
town and has been a place of considerable business, but 
war blasts and withers everything in its reach. After 
passing through the town we crossed Eustananly river 
on a pontoon bridge and went a mile and stacked arms. 
At 9 o'clock we started again when skirmishing and can- 
nonading commenced in front. When our cavalry made 
a charge on the enemy it captured their artillery with all 
its men, drivers and horses, killing and wounding several; 
after which we followed up the retreat about two miles 
when word came back that Wilder had captured their 
train v/ith 500 prisoners and scattered the others. So 
we faced about and marched through Rome and camped 
on the same ground we occupied the night before, making 
a march of 15 miles. Our loss said to be 42 killed and 



36 

wounded, while the enemy's loss, including prisoners was 
near 1,000. 

OCTOBER 14— Started towards Calhoun about 8 o'clock 
and marched till 8 o'clock at night and camped in a large 
field. Today we marched up a beautiful valley; passing 
a great many fine houses, deserted by their owners. 

OCTOBER 15 — On the road today by sun up and march- 
ed at quick time all day, passing through Calhoun at 12 
o'clock and stopped for dinner. We then marched to 
Resacca, here taking the road to Snake Creek Gap, went 
about two miles and camped for the night not far from 
the place our corps made such a desperate charge on 14 
of May last with such fearful results. Had been gone five 
months to a day. 

OCTOBER 16 (SABBATH)— Today is the Sabbath, but 
no rest for the soldier as we are under marching orders 
and only waiting for the road to clear of the streams of 
men and wagons and artillery that has been crowding 
it since midnight. We started at 7 o'clock and marched 
through Snake Creek Gap, which had been blocked by 
the Rebels, which detained us some time; so it was 8 
o'clock at night before we got into camp. We then had 
to draw rations before we could eat supper, so it was 12 
o'clock before we got to sleep. This night the wind came 
from the north freighted with frost. 

OCTOBER 17 — Up this morning at 4 o'clock and ready 
to march at 6. Remained in camp all day and sent a 
letter home. This day by looking to the east could once 
more see the mountains of my native state. Oh! how I'e- 
freshing. 

OCTOBER 18— This morning by daylight we turned our 
backs upon our homes and marched due south at quick 
time all day and camped for the night 20 miles from 
starting point. This evening we found the enemy in small 
force which soon gave way. Then we marched across the 
mountain into the next valley. Today we marched down 
a beautiful valley of fine land with stately mansions at 
intervals with crowds of negroes swarming on the road 
side to get a view of the Yankee army. This valley was 
full of forage for both man and beast and the officers 
had a hard time to keep the soldiers from destroying the 
whole country. 

OCTOBER 19 — This morning we have orders to march 
at 6 o'clock. It is so thick with fog we can hardly see a 
man 20 steps distance. Started at 7 o'clock and marched 
at quick time all day, crossing the Chattanooga river and 
passing through Sommerville about 12 o'clock. Here we 
passed the 1th A. C. and camped for the night some 20 
miles from starting point. This valley abounded with 



37 

sweet potatoes and hogs which the soldiers appropriated 
to their own use without grudging. 

OCTOBER 20— Today we started by sunup and march- 
ed at double quick beyond Gailesville, a distance of 15 
miles and went into camp, 30 minutes after 1 o'clock. 
This day about 12 o'clock we entered the State of Ala- 
bama and camped in a large field in a beautiful valley. 



GAILESVILLE. 

OCTOBER 21— This morning the fog is so dense we 
have to lay still until it breaks away with orders to march 
as soon as we can see our way clear, as the enemy is sup- 
posed to be near. At 10 o'clock we were told that we 
would remain here until next morning as the 17th Regi- 
ment and train had to pass us. This filled the road all 
day with one continual stream of men, artillery and wag- 
ons. The day was spent by our troops in a great meas- 
ure robbing and foraging from the citizens at a rate that 
is shameful for an American. I remained in camp all day 
and washed my clothes, but I could see men coming from 
every direction loaded down with all manner of articles, 
a great deal of which was taken amid the tears and 
screams of helpless women and children; many saying 
it was the hopes they had to sustain life. Still the hard 
hearted soldier heeded not the cry of distress, but like 
a barbarian swept the last vestage of support from these 
unfortunate citizens. Oh! what a wretched condition we 
are in! When will this cruelty have an end, when will the 
sensitive heart ceased to be pained with such cruel and 
inhuman scenes. 

OCTOBER 22 — Remained in camp all day; wrote a let- 
ter to my wife. Today is cold and windy. Men were com- 
ing all day with all kinds of products, the hard earnings 
of the unfortunate citizens, taken in most instances from 
women and children without money or consent of the 
owners. Many a child and gray-headed father and moth- 
er has been stripped this day of nearly all of the comforts 
of life. This to me is a fearful sign that this cruel war 
has not reached its zenith, as I believe it is a scourge for 
our sins and hard-heartedness and instead of getting 
better, some seem to grow hard under the means intended 
for softening. 

OCTOBER 23 (SABBATH)— This is the Sabbath day 
but little regarded as such. I spent part of the day read- 
ing "Baxter's Call," and the Testament. Awhile after 
dinner I went with a friend to a secluded spot and we 
spent two or thi-ee hours in conversation on the war and 



38 



the influence on the citizens; also religion, the purposes 
and decrees of God with his creatures. Returned to camp 
a little before sundown, eat supper and returned to the 
same place with 10 or 12 moi-e for the purpose of a prayer 
meeting. We spent three hours in singing and prayer and 
experimented conversation. Returned to camp; air cold 
and frosty. 



ON THE MARCH. 

OCTOBER 24 — This morning our Regiment was order- 
ed out to forage at 6 o'clock, so we started and marched 
at quick time for about 12 miles on the Chattanooga road 
and finding nothing we wanted we about faced and re- 
turned to camp very tired and hungry. When we come 
back, the Brigade was gone to Cedar Bluff, and we were 
ordered to follow at 8 o'clock next day. 

OCTOBER 25 — This morning we started according to 
orders and crossed the Chattanooga river and marched 
to Cedar Bluff and joined the Brigade in an old field and 
stacked arms to await further orders. About 2 o'clock 
we crossed the Coosa river and built a line of breast works 
in a corn field in the bend of the river; after which we 
were ordered to put tents in regular order. This night 
the mail came in and brought me three letters, one from 
my sister, one from James Sterling and one from W. F. 
Cummings; so I spent an hour reading my letters. 

— — 

CEDAR BLUFF. 

OCTOBER 26 — This morning it is cloudy and indicates 
rain. Today I commenced to answer the letters I re- 
ceived last night, but had not got one done when we were 
ordered to pack up and be ready to march at a moments 
warning. I hastily finished one to Mr. Sterling and will 
have to wait for another opportunity to answer the oth- 
ers. A great many men have passed out to the front 
and while I am writing some skirmishing is going on. 
The order to march was to support the men who went out 
to forage, but as the enemy was not strong we were not 
needed. So this evening I wrote a letter to my sister. 
Towards dark we again put up our tents and remained 
all night. 

OCTOBER 27 — This morning is dark and rainy and all 
is quiet in front, so we are still in camp. Today our mess 
had a good dinner, fresh pork, stewed peas, pumpkin and 
dried fruit. This evening our Company Commander was 



39 



ordered to make out a report of clothing, shoes and other 
things necessary for an active campain of sixty days, thus 
blasting all hopes of rest in permanent quarters. This 
night at 10 o'clock I was aroused from sleep to receive 
a letter from my dear wife. Oh! what a precious letter 
it was, full of love and Christian submission. Our little 
prayer meeting this night was largely attended and, thank 
God, I believe not in vain. One old hardened sinner asked 
the members of this little band to pr^iy for him that he 
might go with us to that goodly land abjvo. 

OCTOBER 28 — This morning our Regiment went out 
after forage and returned by 12 o'clock, when we were 
ordered to be ready to march. Remained until night and 
was told we were to stay until 5 o'clock the next morning 
and to be ready to march at that hour without defalca- 
tion. 

OCTOBER 29— Up at 4 o'clock and ready to march at 
the time set; started just at day light and went slowly 
until half past eleven and stopped for dinner. Today we 
passed through a barren flat pine woods, nothing but long 
leaf pine could be seen as far as he eye could reach. Every- 
thing looks gloomy and desolate. Started again at 1 
o'clock and marched until after dark and camped. Tonight 
I went on picket duty. 

ON THE MARCH. 

OCTOBER 30 (SABBATH)— This morning we left the 
picket post by daylight and started for the Brigade, but 
before we got to camps, the troops were on the march; 
so I had to march some distance before I got my breakfast. 
Today we marched through Cove City and up a very fine 
valley in the direction of Rome and camped for the night 
24 miles from the starting point and two miles from Rome. 
This evening James L. Turner returned to the Regiment, 
having been sent back wounded the 16th of June. Ordered 
to march at daylight this morning; so we were up long 
before day and ate breakfast and ready by time set. To- 
day we passed through the city of Rome again, making 
the third time. This was a hard days march for our Regi- 
ment as we were rear guard for the corps; so it was late 
when we got into camp. This is the last day of a month 
which has been characterized by the most incessant hard 
marching of any month of the year. The Rebels getting 
in our rear, we followed them at quick time for 25 
days, but could never overtake them. Received a letter 
from home. 



40 



RESACCA. 



NOVEMBER 1st.— This morning we started before sun- 
up on quick time and marched two miles east of Calhoun 
and stopped for dinner one hour. We then started for 
Resacca, where we arrived at 1 o'clock. Here we were 
ordered to draw five days rations and 100 rounds of cart- 
ridges and be ready to get on the cars the first train that 
came up, but there being no empty train we remained un- 
til morning. Rained all night. Wrote a letter, 

ON THE CARS. 

NOVEMBER 2— Still raining this morning. Got on the 
train at 9 o'clock but did not start for some time. Lay 
here until four o'clock and started for Chattanooga, but 
having a long train we traveled very slow, it being half 
after 1 o'clock when we arrived at our destination. 

NOVEMBER 3— Rained all night and still raining. We 
stayed on the cars all night, they being wet, muddy and 
crowded, but little sleeping was done. Today 
the mail came in and brought me a letter from my wife. 
At 10 o'clock the train started and we were soon going 
at almost lighting speed towards Nashville and stopped 
at Stevenson at 2 p. m. and i-emained for an hour and 
started again, run all night and arrived at Nashville just 
at daylight and stopped for awhile. Myself and several 
others went into to town to buy some articles and when 
we came back the Regiment was gone and left 8 or 10 
of us (our Colonel among the rest to wait for the next 
train. 



NASHVILLE. 

NOVEMBER 4—1 spent the day looking over the citv 
which was very agreeable, as I got to see the statehouse 
and other public buildings. The town is now full of trade 
of all descriptions, everything to eat that the appetite 
could crave and all kinds of apparel. Stayed in the machine 
shops all night and wrote a letter to my wife. 

NOVEMBER 5th— Was disappointed about transporta- 
tion, so I spent the day very pleasantly looking over the 
forts and viewing the city. Tonight wrote another let- 
ter home. 



41 



ON THE CARS. 



NOVEMBER 6th, (SABBATH)— This morning I got 
upon the Pulaski train and went with almost lighting 
speed, for about sixty miles and met my Regiment coming 
back on the up train. So I changed cars and by sundown 
we were in Nashville again. Remained here two hours and 
started again. This time we took the Memphis Railroad 
and went twenty-four miles by 9 o'clock and stopped for 
further orders. The enemy had cut the road ahead of us 
so we remained here until morning. 

NOVEMBER 7th — This morning is dark and rainy and 
we are still in the cars up to this hour, 9 o'clock a. m. 
About ten o'clock we started again and ran all day, ar- 
riving at Johnsonville a little after dark, where I went 
in a shed and slept till morning. 
— — 

JOHNSONVILLE. 

NOVEMBER 8 — This morning pouring down rain. At 
eight o'clock we were ordered to get off the train when 
we piled out in the mud, for this the muddiest place I 
ever saw. We stayed here one hour, when we went up 
on a high hill about half a mile from the river and went 
into camps. Rained at intervals all day, with high wind. 
About night six large gunboats came up the river. 

NOVEMBER 9 — This morning is warm and very windy. 
Toward evening it rained very hard. 

NOVEMBER 10— This morning is clear and cold. To- 
day we drew clothing and had our old clothes washed up. 
Wrote a letter to my wife. 

NOVEMBER 11— Still clear and cold with heavy frost. 
This night we had an interesting prayer meeting in the 
grove. 

NOVEMBER 12— Today I wrote long letter to my wife 
and mother. 

NOVEMBER 13 ( SABBATH)— Today is a beautiful 
Sabbath day but instead of going to the house of God to 
worship, I was ordered to report for fatigue duty and 
worked until 12 o'clock, when we were dismissed. 

NOVEMBER 14— This morning I was detailed for fa- 
tigue duty again, so I worked until dinner when I had 
to quit on account of sickness. Laid abed most of even- 
ing. 

NOVEMBER 15— Still suffering with something like 
rheumatic pains, subject to alternate fits of chills and 
hot flushes. Today we drew a fine lot of onions, kraut 
and pickles from the sanitary commission. 

NOVEMBER 16 — This morning the doctor excused me 
from duty. Suffered a great deal today with pains in my 



42 

limbs and head. Toward evening my suffering was quite 
severe. 

NOVEMBER 17 — This morning is very rainy and I am 
very sick. Our Regimental doctor has no more respect 
for a sick soldier than I would have for a good dog; no, 
not near so much, for if my dog was sick or wounded, I 
would spend some little time in relieving him. Our doc- 
tor will not. How often have I seen the pale and emaci- 
ated soldier, after perhaps marching and fighting over a 
hundred days in succession and at last when overwrought 
nature was exhausted and the strong man became feeble 
with disease and with trembling limbs reports to his 
headquarters for medical relief, in a great many instances 
the gray haired doctor would hardly raise his head to see 
the patient. He would rush through his morning exam- 
inations with all possible haste, and if the soldier felt that 
his case demanded more than a mere excusal from duty 
and began to state his case as briefly as possible, he was 
cut short by "that is complainings I haven't time to 
to hear," and with cold indifference, call foi the next, and 
so on to the end. Then as this disagreeable and extra 
part of his labor is over, he commences his regular BUS- 
INESS, that of talking and trading in watcher and to- 
} acco and spending hours even with soc'i of the same 
men, he had not time to prescribe a dose of medicine for. 
Yet the government pays him a large salary for his en- 
tire time and attention to her sick soldiers. Rained all 
day and all night, very hard. 

NOVEMBER 18 — This morning is still pouring down 
rain and our camps are almost swimming in mud and 
water. Rained nearly all day. 

NOVEMBER 19— Cloudy all day. Nothing of interest 
occurred. 

NOVEMBER 20 (SABBATH)— This is Sabbath day and 
we are all tolerably well situated in our new camp, the 
first Sabbath we have been so situated for some time, 
affording a splendid time to the thinking mind for media- 
tion and praise to the great Creator of the universe for 
his goodness and mercy to his creatures. This evening is 
mild and clear, so we concluded to have a prayer meet- 
ing in the grove, so about dark we met in the usual place 
and instead of a small squad there were fifty, and better 
than all, I believe the Great Captain of our salvation was 
present. We had a glorious meeting, sinners crying might- 
ily for salvation, old Christians were made to rejoice, some 
back sliders were warmed up and came out boldly on the 
Lord's side, saying, "From this on, we are with you." 

NOVEMBER 21— This morning is cold and windy and 
I am detailed for picket. Went out at 10 o'clock and re- 
mained out until 10 next day. Weather very cold. 



43 

NOVEMBER 22— Returned to camp and ate breakfast 
at 10 o'clock. Remained in my camp all day as the wind 
is very disagreeable out of doors. Very cold night. 

NOVEMBER 23— Still cold and windy; the boys work- 
ed hard all day building chimneys to their houses, and 
had completed them by night and were all enjoying the 
warm fires, when about 8 o'clock at night we got orders 
to be ready to march at daylight the next day. Such are 
the hopes of man. 

NOVEMBER 24— This morning I was unable to march, 
so I, with several others, were turned over to the post 
hospital. At 2 o'clock p. m. the train came in and we 
were ordered to the depot to get on the train and go to 
Nashville, but after waiting there some two or three 
hours, we were ordered back to the hospital to stay until 
morning. 



ON THE CARS. 

NOVEMBER 25— Got on the cars and started at 7 
o'clock for Nashville at 8, where we arrived about sun- 
down, but remained on the cars until 9 o'clock. We were 
then conducted to the Hospital No. 19, Ward 3, where 
we were tolerable comfortably situated. 



NASHVILLE. 

NOVEMBER 26 — On going to the window this morning 
I find that we have a fine view of the river and portions 
of the city, the L. & N. railroad with locomotives coming 
in and going out, making the scene very interesting. 
Sent a letter home. 

NOVEMBER 27 (SABBATH)— The medicine I have 
taken has made me very sick. This moi-ning several men 
were sent to Louisville, among them J. W. Brown of my 
company. Today is the Sabbath and at 10 o'clock we had 
general inspection. I read some religious papers. 

NOVEMBER 28— This morning I feel very weak and 
exhausted from the effects of the medicine, I suppose. Last 
night several more sick came in from the front as the 
enemy is pressing our men close. Today I got a letter 
and went into the city awhile. This evening I wrote a 
letter to Brother Benjamin. 

NOVEMBER 29— This morning I am suffering with 
headache and pain in my back. Today John Strange was 
sent to Louisville. 

NOVEMBER 30 — Today is beautiful and I visited the 
Capitol for the first time in my life and it is truly said 



44 

of it that it is equal to any state house in the Union for 
durability and beauty. This is the last day of Autumn 
and the storm of war that has raged so fearfully all sum- 
mer still continues to hurl thunder bolts of death and de- 
struction among the inhabitants of this fated generation, 
for this evening a large amount of wounded men came 
in from the front. When, oh! my God, will thy terrible 
judgments cease to fill our land with mourning. 

DECEMBER 1st— My health is better than for several 
days. All hands are engaged this morning in dressing the 
wounds of those who came in last night. 

DECEMBER 2— Nothing of interest. Sent a letter 
home. 

DECEMBER 3rd— Today it is rumored that the Rebel 
General Hood is falling back to Franklin. Towards night, 
however, it is contradicted by his advance towards Nash- 
ville. 

DECEMBER 4 (SABBATH)— This is a beautiful day. 
Slight skirmishing going on all day, but no general en- 
gagement. Today I read a pamphlet through called, 
"Come to Jesus." A very able, plain work. 

DECEMBER 5 — This morning the roar of cannon in- 
dicates a general engagement by the two great armies 
now confronting each other. This evening things seem 
to be quiet in the city and around where the two great 
armies lie, quiet seems to prevail. Today we were all 
inspected for the purpose of recruiting the invalid corps. 
A few were taken from each ward. 

DECEMBER 6— This morning cloudy and heavy fog 
and smoke envelope the city. Considerable firing of can- 
non again. This evening I strolled through the city for 
two hours. 

DECEMBER 7 — Today we had general inspection and 
I was marked for duty. At four o'clock a great many of 
us were conducted to the Zollicoffer Barracks. This was 
the largest building I was ever in. having 365 rooms, a 
very pretty place. There are from 1000 to 2000 soldiers 
in it all the time. The rations are good and plenty. 

DECEMBER 8— Remained here all day. Tonight I 
went to Theatre for the first time in my life to satisfy 
my curosity and I was completely satisfied. The scenery 
and music was very nice, but the whole is vanity and 
foolishness. While I sat and looked upon the gaudy and 
costly appendages and the earnestness with which the 
actors endeavored to please the audience, the thought 
struck me very forcibly of how much good could be done 
if all this cost and energy was turned for the interest of 
saving gouls instead of destroying them. This I think 
is my last as well as my first trip to such a place. 

DECEMBER 9 — Today cold with sleet and snow. An 



45 

awful day for the poor soldier on duty. As I sit by the 
fire and look out on the gloomy and frozen ground out 
doors, it makes my heart ache for my fellow soldiers who 
are exposed to all this pelting storm of snow and ice. 
Tonight I attended a religious service held by the Chris- 
tian Commission. 

DECEMBER 10— This morning the earth is enveloped 
in snow. I attended religious services twice today held by 
the Christian Commission. 

DECEMBER 11 (SABBATH)— This is the Sabbath 
day, but we can not read to do any good for the weather 
is intensely cold and wood is scarce. I spent the day 
scrouging around the fire. 

DECEMBER 12— Weather very cold, the water pipes 
being frozen until we can get no water. This morning 
a large amount of cavalry is passing through the city to 
the front. This evening I was sent out to my Regiment 
and was glad to find the boys all well and in fine spirits 
notwithstanding the cold weather. I found the Brigade 
camped to the right of Fort Negley. 

DECEMBER 13— Still very cold but became warmer 
during the day and at midnight began to rain. 

DECEMBER 14 — This morning warmer and very foggy, 
the mud is intolerable. Light firing towards the front. 



MARCHING AND FIGHTING. 

DECEMBER 15— Last night at 10 o'clock we got orders 
to be ready to march at 5 o'clock this moi-ning, so a little 
after daylight we started towards the right, passed out- 
side the breastworks and formed in five lines of bat- 
tle and marched towards the enemy when heavy cannon- 
ading commenced and continued until 12 o'clock, when 
the front lines began to charge, our brigade being the 
third line. We were t'nen marched by the right flank on 
quick time for about three miles through mud six or 
eight inches deep. We were then formed in line in front 
and started for the enemy. When we got half way 
through a field the Rebels opened on us wi+^h artillery 
from a hill about 3-4 mile distance. Then the men with- 
out orders raised the yell and started for the battery on 
double quick and never halted until we gained the top of 
the hill. We captured the battery and about 50 men and 
turned the guns on the retreating enemy. We then push- 
ed on after them to the next line of hills. Here we halted 
as it was night and built a line of works and lay behind 
them till morning. Today Corporal Cox of our Company 
was wounded in the foot. 



46 

DECEMBER 16— This morning I am unable for duty 
caused by an overheat in yesterday's charge The roar of 
cannon is still terrible, our men advancing. At 3 o'clock 
our men made a charge and drove the enemy from their 
works, capturing 1500 of them, including two Generals 
and several pieces of artillery. About 4 o'clock our Bii- 
gade moved out two miles and camped for the night. 



ON THE MARCH. 

DECEMBER 17— This morning is dark and rainy. The 
enemy retreated in the night, so we v/e-e ordered to fol- 
low. I being unable to march I was permitted to get 
in an ambulance for the first time in my life. Rained 
all day, went about 8 miles and stopped for the night 

DEC. 18 (SABBATH)— This morning is still warm and 
rainy. Rode in ambulance again today, stopped for dinner, 
one mile from Franklin. At 4 o'clock we started again 
and went in sight of Franklin and camped for the night 
m a mud hole. 

DECEMBER 19 — This morning it is pouring down 
ram and our mud hole is a solid sheet of water. We stay- 
ed here until 12 o'clock when we crossed the river and 
went about one mile beyond Franklin and camped in a 
nice grassy grove. Rained hard all day, the mud being 
knee deep and very cold. Out of rations. 

DECEMBER 20— This morning cold and windy. Or- 
dered to march at daylight, but did not start till 10 o'clock. 
Went about one mile and stopped and drew hard tack and 
was ordered to guard the train, so it was 8 o'clock before 
we got into camps. About sundown it began to rain and 
sleet and freeze until everything was covered with a solid 
sheet of ice when we stopped. Dark, muddy and no fire. 
Oh! what a time we did have. Of all the service I eve- 
saw, this was the hardest. 

DECEMBER 21— This morning snow is falling fast 
and wmd blowing very hard. Lay still till 12 o'clock and 
marched on quick time about 4 or 5 miles and camped 
m a large forest of beech and maple trees. Snowed all 
evenmg. wind blew hard all night, very cold. The mud 
for the last week has been running in sluices like water. 

— o — 

IN CAMPS. 

DECEMBER 22— This morning is cold and cloudy, the 
ground froze cosiderably; remained in camp all day Sent 
letter home. 



47 

DECCEMBER 23— This morning is clear and very cold. 
The ground froze very hard. Laid still all day. 

DECEMBER 24— This is a bright pleasant day. We 
are still in camp without marching orders at 12 o'clock. 
About 10 o'clock got orders to clean our guns and wash 
our clothes, if we chose as we would not move until fur- 
ther orders. This is Christmas eve; many a youthful 
heart far removed from the scenes of war is beating with 
joyful anticipation of tomorrow. 

DECEMBER 25 (SABBATH)— This is a Sabbath 
Christmas Day, while earth's teeming millions of citizens 
are commemorating the day in different ways, some in 
religious exercises, some in innocent amusement, some in 
debauchery and crime, the soldier sees no difference; his 
regular routine of duty has to be gone through with, 
Christmas or no Christmas. Every day is esteemed alike 
with the soldier; oh, for the enjoyments, comforts and 
privileges of a home and a citizen's life! Weather mild 
and cloudy. Awhile after dark orders came to march at 
8 o'clock next day. 

— — 

ON THE MARCH. 

DECEMBER 26— This morning is warm and cloudy. 
About 8 o'clock we started in the direction of Columbia 
and marched at quick time until we came in sight of the 
large fort at Columbia and pitched tents in a large field. 



IN CAMPS. 

DECEMBER 27— This morning warm and cloudy. 
Nothing of interest occurred. 

DECEMBER 28— This is clear bright day. At 1 o'clock 
I went on picket duty. This evening the wind rose and 
it turned colder. 

DECEMBER 29— This morning it is very cold. Re- 
leased from picket at 2 o'clock and leturned to camp 
to lie around and be smoked, burned and frozen alternate- 
ly from then until night. 

DECEMBER 30 — This morning is warm and cloudy. 
Toward night it began to rain and about 9 o'clock it be- 
gan to snow and continued until nearly daylight. Got 
a letter from home. 

DECEMBER 31 — Very cold. Large log heap fires was 
all that saved us from freezing. These we had in abund- 
ance. This is the last day of the year 1864, and oh, my 
soul how many hearts have been shrouded in grief during 
this year of trouble above any we American people have 



48 

ever endured. Thousands, yea, tens of thousands of men 
have been cut down in the vigor of life leaving their 
friends to mourn over their untimely fate. Oh, this cruel 
war. When will peace and union restore to our droop- 
ing spirits the joys and pleasures of former years. May 
God in mercy hasten the time, is or should be the prayer 
of every true Christian and patriot. 

1865 



JANUARY 1st (SABBATH)— This is a bright beauti- 
ful Sabbath day and being the first day of the year I take 
it as a favorable omen that perhaps this year will not 
be shrouded in grief and sorrow like the Terrible year just 
passed. Today I sent a letter home. Received a letter 
from J. A. Doughty. 



ON THE MARCH. 

JANUARY 2 — Clear bright morning. Orders came 
awhile before day to be ready to march early. Started 
about 8 o'clock and crossed Duck river and went through 
Columbia and took the pike leading to CClifton and march- 
ed to Mt. Pleasant, 14 miles. The country around this 
village is the finest I ever saw in my life. 

JANUARY 3 — On the road this morning by sunup; 
marched to Warrensburg 15 miles. Roads very muddy, 
rations scarce. 

JANUARY 4 — On the march by daylight. Turned cold, 
ground frozen hard. Marched until 2 o'clock and stopped 
to wait for the supply train. Then we drew rations and 
remained till morning. 

JANUARY 5 — On the march by daylight and marched 
at quick time all day. Very muddy, camped for the night 
on a hill. This night was dark and rainy. I was detailed 
for picket. 

— — 

IN CAMPS. 

JANUARY 6 — This morning still raining. I was re- 
lieved from picket at day light and returned to camps. 
Laid still all day. Commenced snowing at night. 

JANUARY 7— This morning the ground is covered with 
snow and we are crowding around our fires vainly en- 
deavoring to keep comfortable, but the wind and smoke 
render it impossible. Oh, what a wretched state is that 



49 

of a soldier, driven from post to post, through rain, hail, 
mud, snow, cold and heat, sick or well, rations or no ra- 
tions, when the order is "Forward," he has to go, go, go. 

ON THE MARCH. 

JANUARY 8 (SABBATH)— This is Sabbath day 
when all should rest from labor and care, and adore and 
praise our Heavenly Father for his goodness and mercy. 
But instead of this orders came long before day to be 
ready to march at daylight. So we were on the road 
rattling over the frozen ground towards Clifton before 
it was light. Marchel all day and camped for the night 
2 miles from the river. 

JANUARY 9— Rainy and cold. Lay still all day. Mud- 
dy and disagreeable. Orders to march at 6 o'clock next 
morning. 

JANUARY 10 — Up long before day and it raining and 
thundering, the mud and water nearly knee deep. Got 
breakfast at last and while we were eating a perfect storm 
of rain come upon us putting out our fires, candles and 
all. So here we were in perfect confusion when we were 
ordered to fall in line and start immediately. We bundled 
up as quickly as we could and off we went in the dark, 
slash, splash in the water and mud to the river at Clif- 
ton, where we arrived about sunup. The boats having 
left before we got here, so we had to camp in the mud 
again. 



CLIFTON. 

JANUARY 11 — This morning ground frozen, very cold. 
Two days now without bread, but about 10 o'clock we 
drew three days rations. 

JANUARY 12 — At 12 o'clock I was detailed to picket 
duty and went to the Columbia pike. Very cold night. 

JANUARY 13— Still on picket this morning, the ground 
frozen hard. About dark we were relieved, returned to 
camp and found the Brigade moved to a better place with 
tents up in regular order. Rations scarce, but I had the 
good fortune of getting a half bushel of meal today. 

JANUARY 14— This morning is clear and cold. The 
river is full of steamboats, gunboats and barges. Today 
our commander received official notice of the death of 
L W. Brown of our Company. He was sent to Louisville, 
Ky., sick, on the 24th of last November. This was sad 
news to me as he was one of my close neighbors and a 
particular friend; he was a worthy young man and a good 



50 

soldier. He left a fond mother and affectionate brothers 
and sisters to mourn the loss of one so young and prom- 
ising. May God, in mercy, sustain and comfort them in 
their sad bereavement! 

JANUARY 15 ( SABBATH)— This is a bright and 
beautiful Sabbath day. All nature seems to rest in sweet 
repose beneath Sol's gentle rays. But my mind cannot 
be confined to the scenes around me. My thoughts fly 
with lightning speed to my own humble home, where a 
lovely wife and sweet children mourn by absence as they 
are seated around the fireside or prepare to go to church 
or Sunday School. 0, how I long to see my wife's lovely 
face and hear the sweet prattle of my thi-ee little boys. 
But fate seems to will it otherwise for the present, so I 
will try to be as cheerful as possible and go to prayer 
meeting tonight, and ask God to help and bless us all and 
give me a spirit of submission to His will. About dark 
some fifteen or twenty of us met in a beautiful cedar 
grove and spent a few hours in singing and prayer, then 
returned to camp. Today we drew six days rations with 
orders to get on the first fleet of boats going down, a^ 
our corps is now ordered to Louisville, Ky. Sent a letter 
home. 



ON THE BOAT. 

JANUARY 16 — This is a cold clear day. Late this 
evening a fleet of boats came down the river. About 8 
o'clock we struck tents and marched to the river. About 
11 o'clock we went aboard the steamer Leni-Leoti, one 
of the transports ordered to transport our corps. We 
fixed down our beds and went to sleep. 

JANUARY 17 — Awhile before day the boats began to 
bellow the bells began to tingle, then the heavy groans 
of the boats' engines sounded, and away we went down 
the river — gunboats in front and rear. At 12 o'clock we 
passed the place where Johnsonville stood a few weeks 
ago. Nothing remains but charred and blackened rub- 
bish, save one solitary dwelling. This is a cold raw day. 
About 8 o'clock tonight we met a large fleet of boats go- 
ing up the river. Ran all night, passing Paducah. 

JANUARY 18 — This morning when I awoke the boat 
was lying in the mouth of the Cumberland at Smithland. 
We stayed here some time and then started up the Ohio 
river which was very high. Ran all day passing several 
nice little villages. Ran all night. 

JANUARY 19— This morning at 9 o'clock snow began 
to fall and continued until 12 m. when it cleared up. Still 
rolling up the river. Stopped awhile at Evansville. Start- 



51 

ed again and about sundown stopped at Rockport to take 
on coal. Then we cut loose and away we went again up 
this mighty river. Met several boats today. 

JANUARY 20— Mush ice thick in the river this morn- 
ing and the banks are covered with snow. Ran all day, 
arriving at New Albany, Ind., on one side and Portland, 
Ky on the other. Here we passed through a canal two 
miles long to avoid the rapids on the river, arriving at 
Louisville a little after dark. Stopped here about an hour 
and started again for Cincinnati. 

— — 
CINCINNATI. 

JANUARY 21— Dark, rainy and foggy today. Ran all 
last night, making nearly one hundred miles. Today we 
passed Manchester, a nice little town on the Indiana side. 
River full of ice. Arrived at Cincinnati a little before 
dark Fog and smoke so dense we could see but little of 
of the city Wharf was so crowded with steamers we had 
to cross over to Covington to lay all night. Here we 
went into town and found anything the appetite desired 
to eat or drink. 

— — 

ON THE CARS. 

JANUARY 22 (SABBATH— We are still at Covington 
wharf at 9 o'clock, with orders to be ready to disembark 
when the boat moves over to the Cincinnati side. This 
is the Sabbath day, but drunkenness and confusion rules 
the hour About 2 o'clock we moved over to the Cinccin- 
nati side, took the cars and started on the Columbus Road, 
passing Camp Denison, a nice place, awhile before dark. 

Rain all night. . r'^i„r«K„= 

JANUARY 23— This morning we are at Columbus. 

Stooped an hour and started again. Snow four or five 

inches deep on the ground and still falling. Ran all day 

^"jANUARY 24— This morning we changed cars, cross- 
ing the Ohio river on a steamboat at Bellaire and started 
on the Central and Ohio R. R. Sti^ll snowing. Ran all day 
and night through mountains and tunnels in abundance. 

JANUARY 25— The snow is very deep this morning, 
covering fences in places. Extremely cold and we are in 
cai'S without fires. Cheat river frozen over. Wild moun- 
tainous country. Ran all day and night. 

JANUARY 26-This morning the snow is not so deep. 
Having passed through the mountains of northern Vir- 
gi^r we arrived at Martinburg about 2 o'clock. Here 



52 

Benj. F. Doughty and Robert Turner of our Company- 
were left to go to the hospital as they are badly off with 
diarrhoea. Ran on to Harper's Ferry a little before dark. 
Stopped about an hour and started again, running until 
2 o'clock at night when the trucks of the box before us, 
occupied by Co. C. of our Regiment, gave way and threw 
it off the track doing a great of damage. One man was 
killed and six others badly wounded. The front trucks of 
our box dumped off but as God willed it, the train stop- 
ped before any of us were damaged. The box was so 
disabled we could go no further in it. So we had to pile 
our baggage and all in the snow and ice. In a short 
time the two broken cars were removed and the train 
went on, leaving two companies of us here in the dark, 
cold mountains. 



IN THE MOUNTAINS. 

JANUARY 27 — Here we are this morning in the moun- 
tains of Maryland, on the railroad, cooking and eating 
around rail fires in regular camp style. About 3 o'clock 
a train came by and stopped for us, but every car was 
crowded so we had to get on top of boxes covered with ice. 
Sat there for about twenty-five miles then stopped at a 
water tank. Here seven of us got off, preferring to be 
left or to walk rather than freeze to death. So we v/alked 
and skated over the ice for about two miles then stopped 
at a house that was lighted up. To our surprise it was a 
church where a few had met to pray. But when they 
learned of our situation, two of them with Christian char- 
ity conducted us to a large mill and furnished us with 
good beds in a stove room. 



WASHINGTON, D. C. 

JANUARY 28 — This morning is said by citizens to be 
the coldest here for ten years. Everything is covered with 
a solid sheet of ice. At 8 o'clock we started and walked 
to the relay house, at the junction of the Baltimore and 
Washington R. R., and reported to Gen. Tylers' headquar- 
ters for transportation. In a short time the train came 
and we jumped aboard and in a few hours were in the 
city of Washington. We found our Regiment in good bar- 
racks with plenty to eat and a good looking stove to cook 
on. Very comfortable. 

JANUARY 29 (SABBATH)— This, the Sabbath day, I 
spent reading and writing to my lovely wife and good old 



53 

mother. This night we had a prayer meeting in Co. Cs. 
room. 

JANUARY 30 — This morning I started out early to see 
the city and spent most of the day visiting all the public 
buildings and Capitol. Wrote to J. A. Doughty. Letter 
from home. 

JANUARY 31 — This morning I commenced to write, 
but after awhile orders came to move. About 12 o'clock 
we crossed the east branch of the Potomac, marched out 
to Camp Stoneman and went into barracks. This is a 
commanding position, giving a view of Washington and 
Alexander and the country all around. 



CAMP STONEMAN, D. C. 

FEBRUARY 1— This morning is cold and cloudy. Noth- 
ing of interest occurred. Wrote a letter to my wife. 

FEBRUARY 2nd— This is a pleasant day. We drew 
rations. 

FEBRUARY 3— Cold and cloudy. Today a lady from 
the Christian Commission paid the Regiment a visit dis- 
tributing a great many articles to the boys. Toward 
evening snow began to fall. Nothing of much interest oc- 
curred. 

FEBRUARY 4— Weather mild and pleasant today. 

FEBRUARY 5 (SABBATH)— This is a beautiful, bright 
Sabbath day. At 3 o'clock we had preaching by the chap- 
lain of the 26th Kentucky. He preached also at night. 
Wrote a long letter to my wife and mother. 

FEBRUARY 6— Weather clear and cold. Sent a let- 
ter to my mother. 

FEBRUARY 7 — This morning snow was falling. To- 
ward evening it rained. Wrote a letter to my brother 
Benjamin. 

FEBRUARY 8 — This morning a deep snow envelopes 
the earth. I am not very well, rather despondent and low 
spirited. Thoughts of home and my dear wife and chil- 
dren fill my mind. This evening at candle-lighting we 
had preaching by the chaplain of the 50th Ohio, V. I. 

FEBRUARY 9— Today is very cold. The 2nd Brigade 
of our Division and the 26th Kentucky were ordered away 
at 8 o'clock a. m. Very cold night. 

FEBRUARY 10— Today is not so cold. Had preaching 
and signed the pay roll. Wrote a letter to my two sis- 
ters, Adline and Agnes. 

FEBRUARY 11— Close to zero this morning. At 11 
o'clock orders came to be ready to march at 6 o'clock next 
morning. 



54 



ALEXANDER, VA., SANITARY COMMISSION. 

FEBRUARY 12— (SABBATH)— Today some snow is 
falling. It is the Sabbath, but snow, Sunday nor any- 
thing- else is excuse for a soldier to rest. So, at the hour 
set we marched to the depot in Washington where we were 
put on open flat cars to ride down to Alexander. Just 
as we started the hardest snow storm I ever witnessed 
commenced. When we reached Alexander, after the cold- 
est ride I ever took, I was almost frozen, so much so I 
was actually alarmed for fear the blood would curdle at 
the fount. When we got to the Soldiers Rest, I was taken 
to the Sanitary Commission to break the chill that had 
seized upon me. 

FEBRUARY 13 — This morning is extremely cold, but 
I am in good, warm quarters at the Sanitary commis- 
sion, a nice place for a wayworn soldier. Today our Reg- 
iment was paid for four months. Finished a letter to 
Capt. Bearden. 

FEBRUARY 14— Today is clear and cold. Sent a let- 
ter home. 

FEBRUARY 15 — Raining and sleeting. My sympathy 
is with the poor soldier who is exposed to this storm of 
ice and water. Received a letter from Brother Benjamin 
and answered it. 

FEBRUARY 16 — Nothing of interest occurred today. 

FEBRUARY 16— Weather milder today. Ice and snow 
melting fast. This evening the Regiment was ordered on 
shipboard and I was sent to Slough Barracks. About 6 
o'clock snow began to fall, continuing after dark. 



SLOUGH BARRACKS, ALEXANDER, VA. 

FEBRUARY 17— This morning I find myself in com- 
fortable quarters. Everything nice and clean. 

FEBRUARY 18 (SABBATH)— I attended preaching 
this lovely Sabbath day and, afterward, wrote a letter 
home. 

FEBRUARY 19 — This is a delightful morning, every- 
thing indicates the near approach of spring. My pains 
are some better, but not well. 

FEBRUARY 21 — Some salutes fired in honor of the fall 
of Columbia. 

FEBRUARY 22 — Today the news came that Charles- 
ton has fallen; it is also the birthday of George Wash- 
ington, the Father of his Country. While the roar of can- 
non reminded the people of this glorious day, I thought 
if his big, pure spirit was permitted to look down on our 
unhappy divisions, he would feel we were unworthy the 



55 

great blessings God gave us through his patriotic and 
generous influence. Wrote a letter to my wife. 

FEBRUARY 23— At 2 o'clock today a young man in 
our ward from the 123rd Indiana Regiment died of lung 
fever. 

FEBRUARY 24— Nothing of interest occurred. 

FEBRUARY 25— Today a young man from the 23rd 
Michigan died of measles. Wrote a letter to Rev. John 
S. Craig. 

FEBRUARY 26 (SABBATH)— Spent the day reading 
and writing. 

FEBRUARY 27— Today I spent looking around through 
Alexander, visited the wharf and saw ships and boats 
by the hundred 

FEBRUARY •^..—We were all mustered for pay. 

MARCH 1 — Nothing of interest occurred. 

MARCH 2— Today rained hard all day. 

MARCH 3— Nothing of interest. Rain. 

MARCH 4 — Today is Inauguration Day. Early this 
morning heavy clouds came up and continued until 10, 
when they began to disappear and by noon the sun shone 
with dazzling splendor. The evening was beautiful in- 
deed. Wrote a letter home. 

MARCH 5 (SABBATH)— Attended preaching at 2 p. 
m. and prayer meeting at night. 

MARCH 6 and 7 — Nothing of interest occurred. 

MARCH 8 — Today Sergeant Strum and myself got a 
pass and spent most of the day in the streets and on the 
docks of Alexander. 

MARCH 9 — Wrote two letters, one to my wife and one 
to the Fulton Street Prayer meeting. 

MARCH 10— Cold with slight snow. 

MARCH 11 — Today I asked to be sent to my command. 
The doctor said I could go on Monday. 

MARCH 12 (SABBATH)— The church bells of Alex- 
andria are calling the people to the house of worship. We 
had religious services at 2 o'clock. Wrote my wife a letter. 

MARCH 13 — I, with several others were sent to the 
Soldiers Rest to be transferred to our command. 

— — 

ON THE POTOMAC. 

MARCH 14— We were still at the Rest at 8 a.m. but at 
9 o'clock we drew two days rations and marched down 
to the docks and went aboard of a transport bound for 
Fort Monroe. We left the dock at 3 o'clock, ran till dark 
and anchored for the night. Today we passed Mt. Vernon, 
the home of Washington, while he walked with the chil- 
dren of men. 



56 



CHESAPEAKE BAY. 



MARCH 15 — Started at daylight and at 10 o'clock en- 
tered Chesapeake Bay. This evening I lost sight of land 
for the first time in my life. Ran until midnight and an- 
chored at Fort Monroe. 



FORT MONROE. 

MARCH 16 — This morning we started at daylight and 
ran down to the Fort and a light vessel came out and 
took us ashore. We remained at the Provost's office 
awhile and then marched dovv^n to the Barracks and here 
we are at 3 o'clock while the wind blows terribly, lashing 
the waves of the bay hither and thither. 

MARCH 17 — Last night the wind blew at a fearful rate, 
making the bay roar as only many waters can. But this 
morning it is calm. 

MARCH 18 — I spent the day watching the vessels in the 
bay and reading my new Bible a present from the Chris- 
tian Commission. 

MARCH 19— (SABBATH)— I had counted on hearing 
Rev. Marshall preach at 10 o'clock but at 9 orders came 
to go to dock and take shipping to Wilmington. At 3 
o'clock we went aboard a steamship and run out in the 
bay and cast anchor. 

MARCH 20 — This morning calm and clear. At 3 o'clock 
weighed anchor and ran out of the bay in to the Atlantic 
Ran all night. 



ATLANTIC OCEAN. 

MARCH 21 — Today we are on the broad bosom of the 
Atlantic. No land visible in any direction. I went on the 
upper deck early to see the sun come up from his watery 
bed; a grand sight. The wind is against us all day. A 
little before sundown a storm arose that continued all 
night. 

MARCH 22 — This morning the ship is plunging and 
rolling at a fearful rate; the sea roaring, the wind in- 
creasing and the men vomiting from seasickness;, a very 
disagreeable situation. This continued all day and we 
had hoped the wind would lull at night, but it continued 
all night, but a little before day was not so hard. 

MARCH 23 — This morning about 9 o'clock we could 
see the light house on Cape Lookout, but soon it vanished 
in the distance. About noon the wind rose, and about 
dark the wind and waves increased at a fearful rate. This 



57 

was a terrible night. My star of hope almost set of ever 
seeing land or my dear family again. I resigned myself 
as best I could into the hands of God, knowing that his 
hand alone could save the ship now plunging and quiv- 
ering on the wild waves. This continued until 3 o'clock 
at night when the wind began to fall and I went to sleep. 
MARCH 24 — This morning the storm is over and we 
are making fine headway. At 10 o'clock we cast anchor 
in sight of Fort Fisher, in plain view of land. Oh, what 
joy and gratitude I felt to niy dear Saviour for His loving- 
kindness and mercy in bringing us safely through the 
storm for three days and nights. My feelings can only 
be known by those who have had similar experience and 
who this calm and beautiful morning are safely anchor- 
ed in sight of land again. To God be all the praise. At 
3 o'clock a pilot came aboard to pilot us into the harbor 
and up the Cape Fear river into Wilmington, where we 
arrived about sundown. At 7 o'clock we went ashore and 
marched out to the convalesence camp and laid down once 
more on the ground. 



WILMINGTON, N. C. 

MARCH 25— This morning I find about forty of our 
Regiment here, the balance gone front. About 10 a.m. we 
were called into line and assigned to duty in Co. As. conva- 
lescent batallion until further orders. 

MARCH 26 (SABBATH)— This is a beautiful Sabbath 
day. I attended divine services at the Presbyterian church. 
Heard a good sermon and fine music. This evening I suf- 
fer extremely with a beating in my right ear. 

MARCH 27 — This morning my ear is better, but still 
roaring, rendering me very uneasy. 

MARCH 29— Cloudy today, with slight rain. 

MARCH 30— Showery all day. Tonight I sat up with 
the sick till one o'clock. 

MARCH 31— Today is cold with high wind. I rambled 
over the city this morning. 

APRIL 1 — O, how I would love to be at home this lovely 
spring morning with my dear family, to enjoy this beau- 
tiful season with them. But God, who doeth all things 
well, wills it otherwise and I submit. Glory be to His 
name! 

APRIL 2nd (SABBATH)— This lovely Sabbath day 
thoughts of h^me, the old church, the Sabbath school, 
with all their past pleasures and privileges, fill my mind. 
At 9 o'clock we were called into line and all who desired 
to go to the front were given the privilege of enrolling 



58 

their names. I gave my name and we are to start at 7 
o'clock tomorrow morning. Attended divine services at 11 
o'clock and attended soldiers prayer meeting at night. 



ON THE MARCH. 

APRIL 2nd — This morning is cloudy with slight rain. 
We started at 7 o'clock for the front, marched about twelve 
miles and camped for the night at 3 p. m., in a pine 
forest. 

APRIL 4 — This morning we started at 6 o'clock, cross- 
ing Cape Fear river, and marched about twelve miles 
when we camped for the night. 

APRIL 5 — On the road by 6 o'clock. Marched fifteen 
miles and camped. Tired and footsore. 

APRIL 6 — On the road at 6 o'clock this morning. 
Marched twelve miles to Magnolia. Drew rations. 

APRIL 7th — On the road at 6 o'clock. Marched until 
4 p. m. Oh, how tired and footsore I am. 

APRIL 8th — Marched again at 6 a. m. Stopped in three 
miles of Goldborough. 

APRIL 9 (SABBATH)— This is a beautiful Sabbath 
day, but on we go to Goldsborough and reported to corps 
headquarters where we were informed that our Regiment 
was relieved and gone back for mustering out of service. 
We then went to department headquarters and got trans- 
portation for Nashville, Tenn. At 5 o'clock we started 
for Newburn, here we arrived at 11 o'clock in the night. 
Slept in depot. 



NEWBURN, N. C. 

APRIL 10— Laid here all day for lack of transportation. 
This night I suffered with pain in breast. 

APRIL 11 — Today we have promise to leave at 4 p. m. 
At 5 o'clock we went aboard the steamship El Sid and 
started down the Neuse river. 

ON THE ATLANTIC. 

APRIL 12 — This morning we passed Fort Hatteras, 
and struck out round the Cape. Wind favorable all day. 
Anchored in Hampton Roads near Fort Monroe at mid- 

APRIL 13— Went ashore at 9 o'clock this morning. At 
5 p. m. we went aboard the mail steamer Adelaide. 



59 



ON THE CARS. 



APRIL 14 — This morning we landed at Baltimore and 
at 9 a. m. took trains for Pittsburg, arriving there at 
midnight. 

APRIL 15 — On the road to Crestline, Ohio, where we 
arrived at 10:30 a. m. Changed cars for Indianapolis, 
arriving there at 9:30 p. m., and marched to the Soldiers 
Home. 



INDIANAPOLIS, IND. 

APRIL 16 (SABBATH)— This is the Sabbath. The morn 
ing papers announce the death of President Lincoln by 
assassiination. Sad news, indeed. Laid here all night and 
wrote a letter home. 

APRIL 17— Laid here until 10 o'clock at night then 
started for Jeffersonville. 

APRIL 18 (On the cars) — Arrived at Louisville R. R. 
at daylight and took the cars for Nashville at 7 a. m. 
Got to Nashville at 6 p. m. and found the boys of the 
Regiment all right. Got a letter from home. 

— — 

NASHVILLE. 

APRIL 19 — Attended the funeral procession of our late 
beloved President Lincoln. 

APRIL 20 — Wrote a letter home the first thing today. 
Spent rest of day in the city. 

APRIL 21 — Remained at barracks all day. 

APRIL 22 — Visited the Legislature in session. 

APRIL 23 (SABBATH)— Remained in barracks all day. 

APRIL 24 — Clear pleasant day. 

APRIL 25 — Nothing of interest occurred. 

APRIL 26 — Weather warm and clear. 

APRIL 27 — Mustered out of the service of the United 
States at 30 minutes to 12 o'clock M. Glory be to God 
for His loving kindness and protection to me during the 
last three dreadful years. 









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